Meaning: The quote "My piece in One World or None was the description of the effect of a single atomic bomb on New York City" by Philip Morrison, a scientist, refers to his contribution to the book "One World or None." This quote encapsulates the chilling reality of the potential devastation that atomic bombs could unleash on a major city. Philip Morrison was a physicist who worked on the Manhattan Project, the research and development project during World War II that produced the first nuclear weapons. His work on the project gave him unique insights into the destructive power of atomic bombs, and he later became an advocate for nuclear disarmament.

"One World or None" is a significant book that was published in 1946, shortly after the end of World War II. It was a collection of essays and articles by prominent scientists and intellectuals, including Albert Einstein, Niels Bohr, and Bertrand Russell, among others. The book was a powerful plea for international cooperation to control and ultimately eliminate nuclear weapons. It highlighted the catastrophic consequences of nuclear war and urged world leaders to pursue peace and disarmament.

Philip Morrison's contribution to "One World or None" was particularly impactful because it provided a vivid and sobering account of the potential effects of an atomic bomb on a major urban center. By focusing on New York City, a symbol of American power and prosperity, Morrison's description brought the threat of nuclear destruction home to readers in a visceral way. His scientific expertise lent credibility to his portrayal of the unimaginable devastation that could result from a single atomic bomb.

Morrison's description likely included details about the blast radius, the immediate impact on buildings and infrastructure, as well as the longer-term consequences such as radiation sickness and environmental contamination. By presenting this harrowing scenario, Morrison aimed to shock readers into facing the stark reality of nuclear warfare and the urgent need to prevent it.

In the years following the publication of "One World or None," Philip Morrison continued to be an influential voice in the discussion of nuclear weapons and arms control. He became a vocal advocate for arms reduction and non-proliferation efforts, using his scientific knowledge and moral authority to warn against the dangers of nuclear escalation. Morrison's commitment to promoting peace and security through his scientific expertise and advocacy work left a lasting impact on the global conversation about nuclear weapons.

Overall, Philip Morrison's quote about his contribution to "One World or None" encapsulates the urgency and gravity of the nuclear threat. His description of the potential impact of a single atomic bomb on New York City served as a powerful wake-up call to the world, urging collective action to prevent the unthinkable devastation of nuclear war. This quote and Morrison's work continue to remind us of the imperative to pursue diplomatic solutions and arms control measures to ensure a safer and more secure world for future generations.