Models of Statehood in the German Nuclear Energy Debate

Abstract

This article analyzes the role of the state in the development of, and controversy over, civilian nuclear energy in West Germany. The static and uniform categories of state strength and state weakness are found insufficient to account for the capacity or incapacity of the state to formulate and implement nuclear policy. Instead, the analysis uncovers the existence of conflicting and contradictory models of statehood in postwar German politics. They shaped the particular contours of nuclear development and conflict.