The new source of energy (1956)

From the October 1956 issue of the Socialist Standard

“In recent years physicists have found methods of producing radio-activity artificially.

Under suitable treatment many substances which are not in themselves radio-active, and which therefore do not disintegrate of their own accord, can be made to emit radio-active rays and particles whereby the atomic nucleus is transformed and finally destroyed—A relatively small inout of energy can lead to . . . the emission of much more energy than was put in ... We have potentially at our disposal an almost unlimited store of energy which, suitably unleashed, can have a tremendous effect on our economy and civilisation.

Used for destructive purposes, it can wipe out the human race; used as a source of industrial power it can confer limitless benefits on mankind.” (Power, Martin Ruhemann, D.Phil. Sigma Books.).