Disarmament: a scientist's view.

• Author: Solomon, Theodros
• Position: Scientific innovations and nuclear weapons control

We find ourselves at the turn of the twentieth century - a century in which man has not only landed on the moon, but also made significant advances in interplanetary exploration. The era of computers and satellite communication has transformed society in a way never before envisaged. The advances in biotechnology and genetic engineering have opened new avenues, with potentials to treat and/or eliminate diseases and revolutionize agricultural production. Science continues to provide new materials for diverse uses by society. These achievements should make man proud.

We also find ourselves in a century that has seen two world wars, a series of civil wars, internal conflicts, international terrorism, urban violence, environmental degradation and the spectre of total annihilation. There have been no less than 170 wars worldwide during the past 50 years. The world's oceans are contaminated by chemical weapons which have been dumped at sea. Radioactive material and other poisons used in the manufacture of weapons have polluted rivers, soil and underground water reserves. Forty per cent of deaths worldwide are now believed to be caused by environmental pollution and degradation. Militarism, including the manufacture and testing of weapons, has contributed its share to this state of affairs. This is a legacy that man should be ashamed of.

Before we start talking about disarmament, we should tackle the issue of whether or not there is a justifiable need for creating the weapons in the first place. One justification that is often thrown is national security, or the need to preserve or safeguard national sovereignty against potential aggressors. However, this is an untenable argument, since there are no winners if and when nuclear wars are waged between the so-called nuclear Powers. The entire world would be at risk of total annihilation.

In a world with over 1 billion people living in "absolute poverty", and where hunger and disease are so rampant, nations are trading in arms to the nine of $750 billion annually - a sum which could wipe out the national debt of the world's 40 poorest countries. Countries, which year after year are in the grip of widespread famine, are spending their meager earnings for the procurement of arms in preparation for wars that would add misery to an already impoverished, war-weary and emaciated populace. Where have our priorities gone?

Perhaps scientists, politicians, businessmen and others should complete their education...