Oceanographers and the Cold War: Disciples of Marine Science

The book Oceanographers and the Cold War explores the international focus of American oceanographers during the Cold War era, examining their roles in conflict and cooperation with other nations. It reveals the military and foreign policy goals served by US government involvement in cooperative activities and how oceanographers used international cooperation to pursue patronage from military, government, and commercial sponsors.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 11 October 2022
Publisher: University of Washington Press

Oceanographers and the Cold War delves into the intricate realm of patronage, politics, and the vibrant community of scientists. This groundbreaking work is the first to examine the captivating field of oceanography during the Cold War era, shedding light on the international focus of American oceanographers. It takes into account the significant roles played by the United States Navy, U.S. foreign policy, and scientists across the globe. Jacob Darwin Hamblin, the author, compellingly argues that to fully comprehend the history of American oceanography, one must consider its profound involvement in both conflict and cooperation with other nations.

Interestingly, American oceanography emerged after World War II in a paradoxical state, entangled within the military-industrial complex while simultaneously characterized by close international cooperation. The military dimension of marine science, encompassing submarine acoustics, fleet operations, and the development of sea-launched nuclear missiles, coexisted with data exchange programs with the Soviet Union and global operations in vast expanses of open seas.

The journey of oceanographers during the Cold War is a testament to their adaptability and resilience. From an uneasy cooperation with the Soviet bloc during the International Geophysical Year of 1957-58, to the establishment of the NATO Science Committee in the late 1960s, which excluded the Soviet Union, to the formation of the U.S. Marine Sciences Council, serving as a vital national bridge between scientists and the government, Oceanographers and the Cold War unveils the multifaceted military and foreign policy objectives pursued by the U.S. government through its involvement in cooperative activities involving scientists. These activities included joint cruises and expeditions, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Furthermore, the book government's involvement in cooperative activities also provided oceanographers with an opportunity to secure patronage from military, government, and commercial sponsors. They strategically employed international cooperation as a means to garner support for their work, nurturing disciples of marine science wherever they could. By building networks and alliances, oceanographers sought to expand their influence and secure funding for their research endeavors.

In conclusion, Oceanographers and the Cold War offers a captivating exploration of the complex interplay between patronage, politics, and the pursuit of scientific knowledge during the Cold War era. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, the book sheds light on the international focus of American oceanographers, the roles played by the U.S. Navy, U.S. foreign policy, and scientists worldwide. It sheds light on the military dimension of marine science, the cooperative efforts with the Soviet Union, and the strategies employed by oceanographers to secure patronage and support for their work. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of oceanography and provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of the Cold War era.

Weight: 555g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780295751276