Nuclear Power can Preserve Life

by Letters Editor · June 18, 2015

From Colleen Callahan, Port Elizabeth

As a member of the Christian Life Community, I am mindful of the benefits of networking with others about good practices and using spiritual tools such as reflection to gain a better understanding of the challenges which face society today.

A crucifix is pictured in front of a cooling tower of a nuclear power plant near the northern Swiss town of Leibstadt. (CNS photo/Arnd Wiegmann, Reuters)

The article �Nuclear test-ban advocate thanks pope for support� (May 6) highlights the challenge of the abuse of nuclear power and raises the following considerations and reflections.

While it is important for restrictions to be placed on the testing of nuclear weapons, because of humankind�s use of them to destroy the life and land of opponents, it is good to be reminded that nuclear weapons are only one facet of nuclear energy, and that nuclear power is used in life-preserving contexts as well.

For example, in the medical field, nuclear energy (as used in the radiopharmaceutical context) is successful in the early detection, diagnosis and treatment of cancer, epilepsy, Alzheimer�s disease and Parkinson�s disease.

So while the abuse of nuclear energy is deplorable and needs to be curbed, let us highlight its benefits too, by encouraging discussion about and focusing on examples of its uses to preserve life.