Decision in the case of Dr. J. Oppenheimer

In "Men and Decisions," Lewis Strauss provides his perspective on the contentious security clearance review of Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer. As the author and a central figure in the decision-making process, Strauss' account is inevitably shaped by his personal involvement and viewpoint, which may lean towards justifying and presenting his actions and decisions in a positive light.

Strauss describes a 1953 meeting with President Eisenhower and other top officials where concerns about Oppenheimer's security clearance, prompted by a report from J. Edgar Hoover, were discussed. Oppenheimer, significant for his contributions to the Manhattan Project and his role as a consultant to the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), had long been under scrutiny for his past associations with Communists and his stance on atomic weapons development.

The narrative delves into the extensive investigations and hearings that scrutinized Oppenheimer's past, character, and loyalty. Strauss details the complexities and challenges of the case, highlighting the polarized views among scientists, government officials, and the public about Oppenheimer's trustworthiness and the implications for national security.

Throughout the chapter, Strauss emphasizes the contentious nature of the "Chevalier incident" where Oppenheimer was accused of providing misleading information to security officers about an espionage attempt. The hearings and investigations brought to light various conflicting accounts of Oppenheimer's actions and statements, contributing to doubts about his reliability and loyalty.

The decision to deny reinstatement of Oppenheimer's security clearance, as narrated by Strauss, was a reflection of the era's charged atmosphere and the interplay between scientific achievement, political ideology, and national security. However, it's important to recognize that Strauss' account may lean towards self-justification, as he was a key player in the decision-making process. His portrayal of events and characterizations of Oppenheimer might be influenced by his own role and perspectives in the saga. This inherent bias should be considered when interpreting his recounting of these historical events.