European University Institute Library

Deterrence and security in the 21st century, China, Britain, France, and the enduring legacy of the nuclear revolution, Avery Goldstein

eng

Includes bibliographical references (pages 301-341) and index

index present

non fiction

Deterrence and security in the 21st century

bibliography

43569476

Avery Goldstein

China, Britain, France, and the enduring legacy of the nuclear revolution

Examining the Cold War security policies of China, Britain, and France, this book not only identifies the constraints that shaped the military strategies of the three countries but also draws lessons from their experience relevant to international security in the post-Cold War world. Beginning with a reconsideration of nuclear deterrence theory, the book takes issue with the usual emphasis on the need for invulnerable retaliatory forces and threats that leaders can rationally choose to carry out. Case studies assessing the nuclear deterrent policies of China, Britain, and France highlight the reasons why their experience, rather than that of the more frequently studied Cold War superpowers, better reflects the strategic and economic factors likely to shape states' security policies in the next century. The book concludes by drawing out the implications of the author's theoretical and empirical analysis for the future role of nuclear weapons.--, Publisher description