Pro-nuclear position

Anti-nuclear position

Belief that major elements of the future are predictable; certainty about general projections of various energy sources. (For example, renewables demonstrably have the practical potential to remain only relatively minor players in world energy supply.)

Belief that major elements of the future are predictable; certainty about general projections of various energy sources. (For example, renewables demonstrably have the practical potential to dominate world energy supply.)

Absolutely certain about the future role of nuclear power (a major and important one), and issues such as nuclear waste (not a difficult technical problem).

Absolutely certain about the future role of nuclear power (no role at all), and issues such as nuclear waste (a technically insoluble problem).

Arrogance born out of belief in infallibility of own analysis.

Arrogance born out of belief in infallibility of own analysis.

Belief that the public is irrationally frightened of nuclear power. If only people could be properly educated they would become more pro-nuclear and support the nuclear industry.

Belief that the public is irrationally complacent about nuclear power. If only people could be properly educated they would become more anti-nuclear and support anti-nuclear campaigns.

Characterisation of opponents as either fools or charlatans.

Characterisation of opponents as either fools or charlatans.

Belief that government is not to be trusted to take wise decisions as it is too much influenced by the anti-nuclear media and pressure groups.

Belief that government is not to be trusted to take wise decisions as it is too much influenced by the nuclear industry and its supporters.