The piece reflects on the belief that the purpose of academia is to simplify complexity, highlighting how societal issues such as inequality and poverty are deeply intricate. It argues that while statistical approaches can be useful, they may not always capture the full context of the issues at hand. The author uses the construction of new nuclear power plants under the Yoon Suk-yeol administration as a case study to probe into what constitutes 'scientific' policy-making, emphasizing that true comprehension often arises from a nuanced understanding of specific contexts rather than broad statistical claims.

The government's rationale for building two new nuclear reactors rests on three main points: the need to reduce carbon emissions, an anticipated increase in power demand due to advancements in AI and electric vehicles, and the necessity for domestic nuclear capability to facilitate overseas exports. However, the author critiques the approach, asserting that the timeline for developing nuclear power is misaligned with the immediate need for greenhouse gas reductions. With a minimum construction timeline of 10-15 years, nuclear power fails to contribute rapidly in the face of urgent climate challenges.

Citing the potential instability in nuclear reactor operations due to climate change-induced temperature rises and cooling water demands, the article raises doubts about the long-term reliance on nuclear energy. By contrasting South Korea's aspirations with the practical experiences of countries like France, where extensive reliance on nuclear energy led to significant structural issues, the piece highlights the critical need for a more integrated and comprehensive approach to energy policy that acknowledges the complexity of climate solutions and societal needs.