As the year 2,000 approaches, anti-nuclear activists around the world are sounding alarms at the possibility that computer malfunctions caused by Y2K could jeopardize public safety.

Last week, the Defense Department announced that all its computer systems deemed critical to U.S. national defense, including those that warn of a missile attack, would be safe from Y2K. As of December 31, the Pentagon had certified that 81 percent of its “mission critical” computer systems were ready for the year 2000.

Anti-nuclear activists say that the Pentagon has not done enough to ensure that its nuclear arsenals do not malfunction. They say that given the late date, the only sure way to avoid a nuclear disaster is for the military to disconnect their nuclear systems altogether.

Guests:

• Dr. Helen Caldicott, a pediatrician who is founder of Physicians for Social Responsibility, as well as of the new group Standing for the Truth in Radiation (STAR).
• Dr. Michio Kaku, professor of Nuclear Physics at City College, which is part of the City University of New York.

Related links:

• Utne Reader Y2K Citizen’s Action Guide
• House Y2K Committee–Stephen Horn (R-CA)