It is pointed out that thep2forces of nuclear physics are structurally similar to the force postulated by Weber in pre-Maxwellian times to be acting between moving electric charges. A brief review of the essential features of the Weber force is accordingly presented, with particular emphasis being placed on the fact that although it is incorrect as a basis for electrodynamics it nevertheless leads to the correct expressions for the force and torque acting between closed circuits. It is in this way that we can understand the quasi-electromagnetic character of certain effects that arise in nuclear scattering in the presence of velocity-dependent forces.