Ethical Dimensions of a World Without Nuclear Weapons

Featuring: William Perry, former U.S. secretary of defense Cardinal Roger Mahony, archbishop emeritus of Los Angeles and visiting fellow at the University of Notre Dame

The dangers of global nuclear holocaust have diminished since the end of the Cold War, but the threat of nuclear proliferation and the risk of actual nuclear weapons use have increased, according to prominent experts. In response to these dangers, William Perry and other former senior national security officials have declared their support for a world without nuclear weapons. The U.S. and Russia have negotiated a new strategic reduction treaty, and global efforts have intensified to secure nuclear materials and technologies and prevent proliferation. The prospect of nuclear disarmament, once considered merely a moral ideal, is becoming a policy objective. Perry and Mahony will address these issues and discuss the ethical challenges posed by current nuclear policy dilemmas. This event is free and open to the public. Sponsors include the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies; the Reilly Center for Science, Technology, and Values; and the Center for Social Concerns.