Talent wrote:I'd give in. The world is terrible enough right now that I can't even image the chaos that would follow a nuclear disaster - I would rather seek out death than be a part of those horrors.
.. aw I just read all the answers and I'm the only one who posted something serious :[
Horrors? Without society we would have to survive in the same fashion that all life of lesser intelligence does, through tooth and claw. I wouldn't throw away something so precious as a life because my cushy society has been flushed.
That being said, I would probably move as far south as I can manage. Winters would otherwise be devastating. Acquire any food items that are readily available. On a day-to-day basis I could use fine fabric so as to not breathe in the inevitable pollution. There is no real way of avoiding radiation. I'd have to immediately collect bottled water and canned food from my local vendors, they provide me with the only non-toxic food and drink.
For protection as well as communal intimidation, it would be necessary to salvage any firearms in my area. Knives and multitools as well. I could sharpen spears with these for additional protection, hunting, and fishing. Ammunition would be rationed sparingly.
I would fashion makeshift nets out of clothing or shrub, and always keep close to a reliable source of water (river, ocean, etc.). Not only would this provide me with hydration and hygiene, but I'd bet life under the surface would better survive a catastrophic event than above it. These would be my main avenue of long-term nourishment. For reference, crocodilians, sharks, and many types of fish survived the atmospheric decomposition of 65 mya whereas dinosaurs and most large species of mammal did not. It would more than likely be toxic to some level, but rivers and oceans would whisk away the worst given time. Fire is also vital.
Once basic subsistence has been accomplished, i would set about finding other survivors and raiding buildings for foodstuffs. We would NOT, however, create rigid rules or any kind of formal governing system at this point. There would be no acting out of Lord of the Flies. It would be understood what we need, and those who work would share in the profit. Structure would be applied later. Live in Florida happily ever after.