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From: edhall@randvax.UUCP (Ed Hall)
Newsgroups: net.singles
Subject: Re: Living (?) with the nuclear nightmar
Message-ID: <2307@randvax.UUCP>
Date: Wed, 13-Feb-85 23:07:18 EST
Article-I.D.: randvax.2307
Posted: Wed Feb 13 23:07:18 1985
Date-Received: Sun, 17-Feb-85 04:43:56 EST
References: <1237@eagle.UUCP> <15500002@uiucdcsp.UUCP>
Organization: Rand Corp., Santa Monica
Lines: 27

> As long as we have a strong defense, and the Soviets are sure
> of our resolve, I see little to fear.  Neither the USA nor
> the USSR desires a nuclear war.  If it does happen, it will
> most likely be because the Soviets thought they could get
> away with something, only to find out (too late) that they
> were mistaken.  (I would have really been worried had Mondale
> been elected.)  
> 
> I think this discussion, despite your disclaimer, properly
> belongs in net.politics.  Your very question is loaded.
> 
> Pleasant dreams!

Actually, it really belongs in net.psychology.  You can argue all you
want about the probability of nuclear war (I happen to agree with you
that it isn't very likely at the moment, although I'd be happy to
explain to you why some defense analysts I know voted for Mondale
because, among other things, they were worried about Reagan's defense
policy).  The fact is, people worry about it.  Children worry about it
at a surprisingly early age.  And it would surprise me greatly if it
didn't subtly affect many people's long-range plans, and even the
degree of commitment they would bring to a relationship.

I'd be curious to know...

		-Ed Hall
		decvax!randvax!edhall