The potential for accidental nuclear war was high from "summary" of The Doomsday Machine by Daniel Ellsberg
The possibility of an unintentional nuclear conflict was not a distant or improbable scenario; it was a very real and present danger. The systems in place to manage and control nuclear weapons were far from foolproof, leaving ample room for errors and mishaps that could trigger a catastrophic chain of events. Mistakes in communication, faulty technology, and human error were all factors that could lead to an accidental launch of nuclear weapons. The complex and interconnected nature of the nuclear command and control systems only increased the likelihood of such a grave mistake occurring.
The lack of transparency and accountability within the nuclear establishment further compounded the risks associated with accidental nuclear war. Decision-makers operated in a veil of secrecy, shielded from public scrutiny and oversight, which allowed for a culture of reckless behavior and cavalier attitudes towards the use of nuclear weapons.
Furthermore, the prevailing belief in the concept of "nuclear deterrence" created a false sense of security, leading to complacency and a disregard for the potential consequences of nuclear conflict. The notion that mutually assured destruction would prevent any rational actor from initiating a nuclear war was flawed, as it failed to account for the possibility of accidents or miscalculations that could spiral out of control.
In light of these grave vulnerabilities and shortcomings in the nuclear command and control systems, the potential for accidental nuclear war was not just a theoretical concern but a very real and imminent threat that loomed over the world. The consequences of such an event would be devastating and irreversible, underscoring the urgent need for a reevaluation of nuclear policies and practices to prevent such a catastrophe from occurring.
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