Deep Dive
Why did Karen Silkwood become increasingly concerned about her health in the final month of her life?
Karen's concern grew after hearing from nuclear physicists that plutonium-239 is 20,000 times more toxic than cobra venom and can cause lung cancer. This information, combined with multiple contamination incidents at work, made her fear for her life.
How did the union's survival impact Karen Silkwood's mental state?
The union's survival provided Karen with a sense of relief, allowing her to focus on her safety concerns without the immediate threat of losing union support.
What were the key findings from the Los Alamos National Lab tests on Karen Silkwood?
The tests revealed internal plutonium contamination in Karen, but the levels were below the AEC's permissible limit, indicating she wouldn't die of radiation poisoning or get cancer from this exposure.
Why did the AEC investigation into Karen's contamination remain inconclusive?
The AEC was unable to determine who spiked Karen's urine and fecal kits, leaving the source of her contamination unresolved.
What was the outcome of the Silkwood v. Kerr-McGee lawsuit?
The jury found Kerr-McGee negligent and awarded the Silkwood estate $10.5 million in damages, but the verdict was later overturned on a technicality. The case eventually settled in 1986 for $1.4 million with no admission of wrongdoing by Kerr-McGee.
What was the significance of the Silkwood case in terms of legal precedent?
The case established that a nuclear facility could be held responsible for damages outside their facility, setting an important legal precedent.
How did Kerr-McGee attempt to discredit Karen Silkwood during the trial?
Kerr-McGee attacked Karen's lifestyle, suggesting she was untrustworthy due to her living situation and alleged drug use, in an attempt to undermine her credibility.
What was the main question the jury had to answer in the Silkwood v. Kerr-McGee trial?
The jury had to determine whether Kerr-McGee was negligent in its operation, allowing plutonium to escape and contaminate Karen Silkwood.
What was the role of the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) in regulating Kerr-McGee's plant?
The AEC was responsible for ensuring the plant's safety and compliance with regulations, but their public reports often downplayed the severity of issues raised by Karen and the union.
What was the significance of the missing plutonium allegation made by Karen Silkwood?
Karen's allegation of 17 kilograms of missing plutonium raised concerns about potential national security threats, as this amount was sufficient to make a crude nuclear weapon.
- Plutonium-239 is at least 20,000 times more toxic than cobra venom.
- Plutonium exposure can cause various cancers, especially lung cancer if inhaled.
- The long latency period before cancer manifestation causes significant concern.
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