Understanding the Doomsday Clock: Why Was it Set at 17 Minutes to Midnight?

Explore the significance of the Doomsday Clock's 17-minute mark in 1991. Discover its historical context and implications.

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The Doomsday Clock was set at 17 minutes to midnight in 1991, the farthest it has ever been from midnight. This was due to the end of the Cold War and significant reductions in nuclear arsenals by the United States and the Soviet Union.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What does the Doomsday Clock represent? The Doomsday Clock symbolizes the perceived threat of global catastrophe, particularly from nuclear weapons.
  2. When was the Doomsday Clock last set? The Doomsday Clock's current setting can be found on the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists' official website.
  3. Who determines the time on the Doomsday Clock? The time is set by the Science and Security Board of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, which includes scholars and experts in various fields.
  4. How has the Doomsday Clock changed over the years? The Doomsday Clock has changed several times since its inception in 1947, reflecting the shifting landscape of global security threats.

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