Life and Nuclear Radiation: Chernobyl and Fukushima in Perspective

During the Cold War with its threat of a nuclear holocaust, fear of radiation was an effective weapon deployed by both sides, and the resulting collateral damage to civilian morale persuaded many to avoid any contact with radiation, even to opt for a nuclearfree society. Many marched, demonstrated and voted accordingly. Governments, whilst maintaining their Cold War stance, tried to calm domestic concern, and international and national committees drew up recommendations designed to ensure that, apart from its use in medicine, any radiation dose would be close to levels found in the natural environment – the acronym was ALARA: As Low As Reasonably Achievable.