Nuclear energy support - role of Gender

One interesting interpretation is examining the different viewpoints of nuclear based on gender. Obviously, many factors will impact the perceived risks and morals such as social status, wealth (Barke 1997) and proximity to previous disasters. However, gender has been recognised as an important factor in differentiating nuclear perspectives. Brody (1984) proposes two hypotheses as to why he feels women show lessened levels of support compared to men. One being economic growth, as men are deemed to be more focused within employment and monetary access. This means they favour nuclear due to its potential to provide both financial gain and business opportunities. Arguably, this analysis is out-dated, such a hypothesis seems absurd in the modern world where female employment (ONS 2013 - UK perspective) and business connections are on the rise.

The second hypothesis (Brody 1984), which I feel perhaps contains more substance, revolves around safety. Women are maternal and “nurturers of life”, therefore they will be far more responsive to the threats of nuclear energy, compared to men. This may relate to the reproductive role of women, with past evidence showing nuclear disasters to impact pregnancies and fertility. Risks to future generations will tend to be recognised and feared highly within women. This could once again be classed as out of date, as women are no longer seen to occupy just motherly roles. However, it is likely to be related to the biology and  internal instincts to protect that are suggested to be more apparent in women.

Barke (1997) alludes to a greater opposition to new technology within female scientists. That they are less willing to adopt new practices, once again due to the fear of the consequences – that are well publicised and accessible through mainstream media. The author also argues that women have a greater consideration for the environment within the scientific realm – this opens the door for ambiguity. This could promote strong nuclear opposition with the belief that radionuclide fallout for example can detriment the natural world. However, it could also promote a positive nuclear outlook if the individual feels it can reduce emissions and aid the environment. This can be illustrated by the NGO Women in Nuclear (WIN). The vision of WIN is:

To be a forum for exchanging information and raising awareness of the benefits of nuclear and radiation applications, and of the safety measures that ensure protection of the public and the environment, thereby enhancing the quality of life (WIN 2015).

WIN "Smiling Atom" logo (WIN 2015).

This therefore highlights how a gender divide is not absolute, general trends may exist however ultimately the individual perspective will reign supreme. It is likely that despite a common theme other variables are likely to impact upon female beliefs, for example in Sweden older women are regarded as more supportive than the young. Whilst a political stance towards the right also provided a greater acknowledgement to the positives of nuclear energy (Sandstorm 2015). There is the belief that the gender divide may narrow as the influence of WIN grows (Sandstorm 2015). The support coming from a female dialogue and perspective may stimulate further female backing in the coming years.