Self-Driving Cars and Nuclear Power: A Dual Test of American Progress, Says Pethokoukis

Washington D.C. – The advancement and public acceptance of self-driving cars and nuclear power serve as critical indicators of America's willingness to embrace progress, according to James Pethokoukis, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and author of "The Conservative Futurist." Pethokoukis posits that these technologies are not merely engineering feats but "mirrors reflecting whether America has regained the will to move forward," as he stated in a recent social media post. This perspective underscores a broader discussion about innovation, risk aversion, and national ambition.

Pethokoukis, known for his "Up Wing" philosophy advocating for technological advancement and economic growth, has consistently linked the nation's posture towards these fields to its overall dynamism. He argues that after years of being "perpetually stuck in beta," the self-driving car industry is now "finally shifting gears," with companies like Waymo logging significant paid rides. This shift suggests a move from overhyped promises to tangible commercial reality, though challenges remain.

The autonomous vehicle sector, while showing significant technological strides, faces considerable institutional and regulatory hurdles. Waymo, for instance, has expanded operations across multiple US cities and is preparing for international launches, demonstrating growing commercial viability. However, local resistance, such as Boston lawmakers pushing for ordinances to restrict fully autonomous ride-shares, highlights ongoing debates about safety, employment, and liability.

Similarly, nuclear power, once envisioned as a limitless energy source, has grappled with public apprehension and regulatory complexities since incidents like Three Mile Island. Pethokoukis views the historical hesitancy towards nuclear energy as a form of "reflexive risk aversion" that has stifled progress. Despite this, there is renewed interest in nuclear power, particularly in advanced reactor designs and small modular reactors (SMRs), which promise enhanced safety and efficiency.

Experts point to the potential for both technologies to offer substantial societal benefits, from reducing traffic fatalities with autonomous vehicles to providing clean, abundant energy through nuclear fission and fusion. The ongoing development and deployment of these innovations will ultimately test whether the United States can overcome historical caution and fully commit to a future driven by technological progress.