An Introspective Overview of “3.11”

Abstract

This paper emphasizes the important agendas related to the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and serve to invigorate the debate of nuclear energy usage. Until the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident occurred, the risk of nuclear power plants was considered to be zero or completely under control. An impossibility hypothesis of a serious accident, such as a meltdown, secured the health conditions of neighbors from radiation exposure. This overconfidence led the general pupblic to misunderstand that the economic compensation of potential nuclear damage from national government and companies was a type of subsidy without risk, and it contributed to population growth in municipalities around the nuclear facilities.

Unfortunately, an accident with radioactive contamination occurred; thus, the impossibility hypothesis was undermined. In addition, the large population around nuclear facilities made it difficult to evacuate, provide life support, and ensure fiscal compensation after the accident. However, we doubt that the opportunity cost of nuclear power is less than the economic benefits. I consider that now researchers of nuclear power energy must provide reliable and current information and engage in proactive discussions on nuclear energy.