Iran, North Korea, and the Renewed Challenge of Proliferation

Explore the complex landscape of nuclear proliferation in this 34-minute lecture by R. Scott Kemp from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, presented at the APS March Meeting 2019 in Boston, MA. Delve into the puzzling trend of decreased nuclear proliferation over the past four decades despite technological advancements making access easier. Examine the roles of international politics and technology in shaping nuclear capabilities and control systems. Focus on Iran and North Korea as case studies to understand the future impact of technological change on proliferation. Learn about the significance of gas centrifuge technology in enabling proliferation and detecting clandestine programs. Discuss emerging technologies and policies that may help limit, control, or reverse nuclear proliferation. Cover topics including the Iran Nuclear Deal, uranium enrichment, political rapprochement, North Korea's nuclear program, Kim Jong-un's leadership, economic factors, and the role of sanctions in non-proliferation efforts.