So we presently have energy tech (coal/gas) that kills tens of thousands per year (from pollution) but we don't want to eliminate it now, since we might create something that might cause a catastrophy (where we understand the odds to be very very small).

It is this irrational thinking that caused climate change today. If we had gone nuclear in the 70s, there would be no coal plants today.

good thing we listened to thinking like this!

cant' be too careful.