In the Y2K nightmare, all these computers become confused about time, and the world comes to an abrupt halt. Most experts agree the nightmare scenario is extreme. But scattered computer problems, combined with a few panicky missteps, still threaten our daily comforts, finances and futures. It is a social dilemma of unknown dimensions, because nobody can predict the actions of millions of people. The second greatest risk is public apathy.
People have to make their own decisions between what is paranoid and what is prudent.
They found a country of mixed emotions. About three-fourths of Americans believe that Y2K will result in little more than minor inconveniences, according to our national survey. About a third of all families plan to stock up on extra food. In Boyd's clock store, Tom Sieh, a shaggy- haired clocksmith, leans over a French timepiece he's restoring, one tiny wheel at a time. The cut of the wheels is so precise.