Science: Atomic Quickies

When the atomic bomb fell on Hiroshima, its tremors were felt even in U.S. book publishing. The journalists of science hastily locked themselves up with their thoughts and their typewriters. Editors spurred them on.

Last week, a sizable number of atomic books burdened the newsstands.* Few contained anything important or trustworthy which had not already been published in the now-famed Smyth Report (Atomic Energy for Military Purposes; Princeton University Press; $1.25). Some of the new books were sprinkled with palpable errors. Others burbled with the gee whiz tone of popular science. Some gave detailed descriptions of atomic engines for airplanes and automobiles. (Most responsible scientists believe that such engines will not be designed for many years. When finally built—if ever—they will probably not resemble anything known at present.)

The main trouble with all the atomic books, besides their frenzied haste in production, was the secrecy which still surrounds atomic physics. Since the Smyth Report first appeared (Aug. 11) no more information had reached the public. All informed scientists were still muzzled by postwar military security. Only those certified ignorant might write freely and without caution on the subject.