The Irony of Scientific Studies
Scientific studies are supposed to be objective discoveries of facts that can be used to determine the suitability of a particular course of action depending on how the results measure up to the standards. Ironically, in the case of Yucca Mountain, these studies were faked and the standards were lowered in order to make the Mountain seem like a passable deposit site, defeating the purpose of conducting the studies in the first place.
The Irony of Senator Reid's Support
Senator Harry Reid acts at first like he's wholehearted fighting for the rights of the people of Las Vegas, as if nothing will satisfy him but justice for the American people. His devotion to the cause, however, reaches no farther than his wallet: when he receives large "donations" from the organizations he opposes, he changes his mind and supports the motion to pass the Yucca Mountain Project.
The Irony of the City of Lights
Las Vegas is hailed as one of the best places to visit and live in the country, but despite all this hype, the people who actually live there are miserable. Las Vegas, "the City of Lights," has the highest rates of suicide, drug use, smoking, high school dropouts, DUIs, bankruptcy, and divorce in the United States, which is ironic considering its reputation.
The Irony of the Parade
In the opening scene of the book, D'Agata participates in a parade for the city of Las Vegas. The parade is a great success, resulting in extremely high praise and an atmosphere of jovial celebration. Ironically, most of those involved in the parade, at least in D'Agata's area, don't care about the parade or the city at all, making this a hollow and meaningless celebration.
The Irony of "Facts"
Facts are supposed to be pieces of objective information that journalists and writers can use impartially to support their arguments. D'Agata, however, embraces a much more liberal application of "facts," choosing to believe that they are able to be manipulated and rewritten in order to get one's point across. While this may or may not lead to better art (?), it certainly ironically undermines the role of facts in reporting.
Irony of Environmental Impact
The exploitation of natural landscapes for tourism and financial benefit is ironic in the context of the environment, given that these particular settings are prized for their inherent tranquility and beauty. The urge to enjoy and benefit from these landscapes' natural attributes frequently motivates behaviors that jeopardize their preservation.
