Module 3 / Lesson 7
Nuclear Risks
This lesson examines the unique danger of nuclear war as a global catastrophic or existential threat. You will explore the concept of nuclear winter, review historical close calls, and analyze the factors; such as deterrence and accidents; that influence the likelihood of a global catastrophe.
- Goal: By the end of this lesson, you should be able to explain the concept of nuclear winter, analyze historical risk data, and understand the tensions between deterrence and accidental escalation.
Lesson Blocks
- Lesson 7.1: Risks of Developing Nuclear Weapons
The risks of developing nuclear weapons and early assessments of atmospheric ignition. - Lesson 7.2: Consequences of Nuclear War
Understanding the immediate devastation and the global threat of nuclear winter. - Lesson 7.3: Historical Close Calls
An examination of accidents, false alarms, and near-miss scenarios in history. - Lesson 7.4: Trends and Risk Assessment
Current arsenals, global tensions, and methods for estimating the probability of future conflict.
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