Nuclear Power as a Feminist Issue

Women consistently show more opposition to nuclear power than men in public opinion polls, and they participate more in antinuclear organizations. Their concerns range from the health effects of radiation on women and on future generations to ideological and political matters. The diversity of their concern is reflected in the wide spectrum of women's organizations opposing nuclear power and how their positions are translated into political action. Women's publications and organizations which represent a national constituency have increased women's participation as informed educators and intervenors in hearings to raise health and safety questions, while the feminists groups use a shock approach in their moral crusade to establish a separate women's culture. The feminists have had an impact on the nuclear industry, which responded by promoting pro-nuclear women to public relations positions. (DCK)