How historical lenses can affect the study of a historical topic

Effect of Historical Lenses on the Study of a Topic

Read the article, write a discussion post (150 to 200 words) about which of the following lenses you believe the article is using: social, political, economic, or other. Use at least two quotes from your source to justify your choice of lens.

Social Lens: The article investigates the sociological effects of the atomic bomb. Japanese citizens and American military personnel were devastated by the explosion. It examines how widespread misinformation of radiation’s effects caused countless suffering and fatalities, focusing on the moral dilemmas caused by the needless massacre of innocent people and survivors’ long-term health problems. The statement ““I could hardly believe my eyes,” Stone wrote, “when I saw a news release said to be quoting Oppenheimer, and giving the impression that there is no radioactive hazard. Apparently all things are relative.” illustrates this attitude.

Political Lens: This article examines the atomic bomb deployment decision-making from a political standpoint. It emphasizes the decision-making roles of President Truman, Secretary of State Byrnes, and Secretary of War Stimson. It scrutinizes how the Pacific War and the need to end hostilities influenced the bomb’s deployment. A quote that backs up this opinion is “Even without an understanding of the lingering and indiscriminate effects of radiation, several important American decision makers expressed qualms about the combat use of the bomb against Japanese cities and civilians.”

Economic Lens: This article examines the economics of Manhattan Project funding and resource allocation for atomic weapons development. It explores the large amount of time and money put in the project, assuming financial concerns influenced the weapon use choice. A key point is “In light of the tremendous investment in time and resources poured into the Manhattan Project and the bloody, ongoing war in the Pacific, it is hard to imagine Truman foregoing use of the bomb.” It also discusses the economic effects of the Cold War, including the development of nuclear weapons, the defense budget, and world politics.

Other Lenses: The paper addresses political, social, economic, historical, technological, and ethical aspects. It covers the history of the atomic bomb and the ethical issues surrounding its long-term radioactive effects. Detailed scientific and technological advances led to the design and use of nuclear weapons during World War II.

Malloy, S. L. (2012). ‘A very pleasant way to die’: Radiation effects and the decision to use the atomic bomb against Japan. Diplomatic History, 36(3), 515–545. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.snhu.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&AuthType=cookie,ip,url,cpid&custid=shapiro&db=a9h&AN=74547716&site=ehost-live&scope=site