Chad Renner FBB #2

What was particular poignant in this chapter was the manner in which appearances were maintained; whether it was concealing the rapid deterioration of the family dynamic or the true enormity of the Rocky Flats fire and its ramifications for the surrounding communities. In both instances the facade of normalcy was vigorously sustained regardless of how ludicrous it may be and how dire the consequences may be if that facade preserved. That is to say everyone is aware of both crises but is either unable or simply unwilling to rectify either because they are frightened of the repercussions of doing so. The sense I get from this chapter is that while a solution may be implemented it requires everyone to acknowledge the existence of a problem and this admission is simply insurmountable for anyone to make. Therefore, while everyone is aware of the father’s chronic alcoholism (and suffer humiliation and physical injuries as a result of it) they are unable to resolve it because they fear the inevitable turmoil entailed by questioning it will be too great. This is analogues to the numerous studies and findings regarding the immense quantities of plutonium in the air, soil, and water; and the continued denial of the Rocky Flats facility of any hazard poised by the plutonium. Of course there are adverse effects including deformed livestock and increases in reports of testicular cancer. However when confronted by the preponderance of evidence Dow Chemical rebuffs it claiming that the findings are inaccurate.