The Atom and the Fault

The reader is provided an interesting perspective of the growing pains, tribulations, and intricate processes of nuclear powerplant siting and licensing. The concepts of scientific truth, honesty, integrity, and objectivity and how these exist among scientific experts is explored through examination of still‐controversial cases such as Bodega Head, Malibu, Diablo Canyon, and Vallecitos. A dilemma evolves that stems from both the variations in the interpretations of geologic features and the differing positions on issues expressed by consulting geologists, U.S. Geological Survey geologists, Nuclear Regulatory Commission staff, and intervenors. Although the author espouses honesty and integrity, an inquisitive reader may find a measure of the author's bias in the examination of “scientific truth” developed during the licensing proceedings.