Mark Wayne Walker (1959–)

Hitler's Atomic Bomb, by Mark Walker, is a comprehensive look at the scientists, mostly physicists, who worked on the German attempt to create a bomb. This analyzes what they thought they could accomplish, the degree to which each supported the Nazi regime, and how they explained their actions once the war was over.

There are many fascinating sections in the book, with many of them speaking to more than just the specific events. Each reader will likely find different sections that intrigue show more them but I will mention a couple of mine.

Though I had heard of Farm Hall I found the details here to offer insight not simply into how these scientists were rationalizing their actions or inactions but also into our very human tendency to make our actions sound better after the fact. We all do it and these scientists demonstrate many of the techniques we use.

I was also intrigued when they exchanged letters and words well after the war about how they had felt about National Socialism. Not just the part about rationalizing that I touched on before, but how one could appreciate or understand the party when it started but allegedly not support it when Hitler essentially became synonymous with National Socialism. Much the way some people today can understand the basic underlying feelings leading to extremism and trying to overthrow our government but can't condone it when a single person becomes synonymous with that party. There is a big difference in understanding and condoning. Unfortunately, now, as then, people will accept the unethical and immoral if they think enough power comes with it.

I would recommend this to both history buffs as well as those who enjoy reading about the human beings involved in major historical events. This is about how science can be practiced as well as how human beings can talk themselves into almost anything.

Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley. show less