AP Success - AP World History: Visions of the Atomic Age, 1954
Lewis Strauss, chairman of the United States Atomic Energy Commission, 1954"Transmutation of the elements, unlimited power, ability to investigate the working of living cells by tracer atoms, the secret of photosynthesis about to be uncovered,–these and a host of other results all in 15 short years. It is not too much to expect that our children will enjoy in their homes electrical energy too cheap to meter,–will know of great periodic regional famines in the world only as matters of history,–will travel effortlessly over the seas and under them and through the air with a minimum of danger and at great speeds,–and will experience a lifespan far longer than ours, as disease yields and man comes to understand what causes him to age. This is the forecast for an age of peace."
Question 1
Which of the following best reflects the perspective of Lewis Strauss regarding the impact of atomic energy in 1954?
Atomic energy would be too expensive for widespread use and have limited impact on daily life.
Atomic energy would primarily be used for military purposes and lead to global insecurity.
Atomic energy would cause environmental concerns that would overshadow its benefits.
Atomic energy would lead to significant advancements in technology and quality of life.
Question 2
The optimism of Lewis Strauss about the future of atomic energy can be seen as a reflection of which period's sentiments?
The Cold War era, dominated by fear of nuclear annihilation and political distrust.
The Great Depression, marked by economic hardship and a lack of faith in technological progress.
The post-World War II era, characterized by technological optimism and economic growth.
The early Industrial Revolution, when the negative effects of industrialization were not yet fully realized.
Question 3
Strauss's prediction that 'our children will enjoy in their homes electrical energy too cheap to meter' suggests a belief in which of the following?
The role of government regulation in setting fixed prices for energy.
The importance of conserving energy to prevent future energy crises.
The potential for atomic energy to revolutionize energy consumption.
The inevitability of resource scarcity leading to increased energy costs.
Question 4
The mention of 'great periodic regional famines in the world only as matters of history' implies a future where:
Climate change would exacerbate food shortages and lead to more frequent famines.
Traditional farming methods would remain dominant, preventing improvements in food security.
Advancements in agricultural technology and distribution would eradicate hunger.
Global population growth would outpace food production, leading to widespread starvation.
Question 5
Strauss's forecast that disease will yield and lifespan will increase as a result of atomic energy most directly suggests which of the following applications?
The use of nuclear technology in medical research and treatment.
The development of nuclear-powered vehicles to reduce accidents and improve safety.
The reliance on atomic bombs as a deterrent to prevent wars and improve global health.
The implementation of nuclear energy in agriculture to enhance food quality and longevity.
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