Op die drumpel van die atoomeeu

Abstract

The small group of scientists who watched the first atomic explosion in the New Mexican desert realised that man has crossed the threshold of a new era, the atomic era, and that God has given him a power which, if wrongly used, will be sufficient to destroy himself. A nation may take one of two courses: it may either refuse to take part in the developments of this new age or it may undertake research which leads to these remarkable inventions and so fulfil his God-given destiny. We should not only endeavour to develop the many peaceful applications of atomic energy but should arm ourselves with these dangerous weapons because that seems at present the only way to ensure peace. Man knows by the practical experience and theoretical calculation what his fate will be, should he embark on a full-scale atomic war.