The history, problems, arguments, and controversy concerning power created by nuclear fission are outlined. The purpose of the booklet is to present unbiased information for the layman in understandable language in order to improve the quality of national debate over nuclear power. Information for the booklet was gathered from journals, government reports, private institutions, academicians, and government commissions. The eight-chapter document discusses incidents leading to the current controversy over nuclear power, the formation of the UN Atomic Energy Commission, the Atomic Energy Act of 1946, and the establishment of the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission, which has exclusive control over production, ownership, and use of fissionable materials in the United States. Methods are outlined for measuring and judging risks when energy sources are compared. The safety factors of low and high level radiation, the necessity for improving safety systems, and reform needs in licensing, operations, and emergency plans are also discussed. A "short course" in nuclear reactors describes light water, breeder, and alternative reactors. Rising construction costs, financial constraints, and cheaper alternatives for utilities companies are presented as major economic factors. The final chapters consider the nuclear fuel cycle for uranium and plutonium, weapons proliferation, and nuclear terrorism. (KC)