The words that we use are important for public perception.
"Fusion Energy" has more positive associations than "Nuclear Fusion" does. As shown in a recent study by the University of Oklahoma Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis study. They asked respondents to provide the most frequent images that come to mind when asked to think about these terms.
Clearly, using the term "nuclear" elicits more negative imagery. This pains me as a nuclear engineer. But I still recommend to my clients that they say "fusion energy" and don't use terms associated with fission, like "nuclear" and "reactor."
At the same time, we cannot hide the fact that fusion is a part of nuclear energy. It harnesses the power of the atom. As people learn more about fusion, they will discover the connection.
How do we address people's concerns head-on without scaring them with the words that we use?
But maybe fusion deserves to start on its own terms, without having to shoulder the burden of past misconceptions.
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