This book was originally published in 1956, it provides an analysis of atomic power up until the time of publication. Professor Blackett divides the use of atomic power into three periods: the time of American atomic monopoly, the time of American atomic superiority and the time of atomic parity with Russia. In analysing these periods, Blackett provides an unconventional but reassuring estimate of the situation. Much of the extreme anxiety in the West, he argues, is the result of faulty military and political thinking, with Western countries making particular errors of judgement in terms of the atomic arms race. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in atomic power and the Cold War.