In this sobering book, Barry R. Posen demonstrates how the interplay between conventional military operations and nuclear forces could, in conflicts among states armed with both conventional and nuclear weaponry, inadvertently produce pressures for nuclear escalation. Knowledge of these hidden pressures, he believes, may help some future decision maker avoid catastrophe.
Building a formidable argument that moves with cumulative force, he details the way in which escalation could occur not by mindless accident, or by deliberate preference for nuclear escalation, but rather as a natural accompaniment of land, naval, or air warfare at the conventional level. Posen bases his analysis on an empirical study of the east-west military competition in Europe during the 1980s, using a conceptual framework drawn from international relations theory, organization theory, and strategic theory.
The lessons of his book, however, go well beyond the east-west competition. Since his observations are relevant to all military competitions between states armed with both conventional and nuclear weaponry, his book speaks to some of the problems that attend the proliferation of nuclear weapons in longstanding regional conflicts. Optimism that small and medium nuclear powers can easily achieve "stable" nuclear balances is, he believes, unwarranted.
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
"Posen has written a provocative and important book . . . which explores an issue that could increase in relevance as nuclear weapons proliferate throughout the Third World."―Intelligence and National Security
"As long as nuclear weapons exist, they may be used, and Barry Posen's book is a valuable contribution to thinking about ways in which nuclear use might come about."―International Affairs
"Posen . . . does a masterful job of effectively utilizing detailed information to demonstrate the complex interplay of force postures, strategic doctrines, and decision-making dynamics. In these respects, the author's contribution transcends the time frame dominated by two superpowers armed with gargantuan nuclear arsenals."―Choice
"Inadvertent Escalation makes a truly unique, original contribution to security issues and should make defense planners grapple with conventional and nuclear linkages in future conflicts. Posen's answer gives wisdom to innocent defense planners as they venture forth into a post-Cold War world."―Military Review
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
Shipping:
£ 2.12
Within U.S.A.
Book Description Condition: New. Seller Inventory # 19198585-n
Book Description Condition: New. Buy with confidence! Book is in new, never-used condition. Seller Inventory # bk0801478855xvz189zvxnew
Book Description Condition: New. New! This book is in the same immaculate condition as when it was published. Seller Inventory # 353-0801478855-new
Book Description paperback. Condition: New. Language: ENG. Seller Inventory # 9780801478857
Book Description Paperback or Softback. Condition: New. Inadvertent Escalation: Conventional War and Nuclear Risks 0.96. Book. Seller Inventory # BBS-9780801478857
Book Description Condition: New. Seller Inventory # I-9780801478857
Book Description Soft Cover. Condition: new. This item is printed on demand. Seller Inventory # 9780801478857
Book Description Condition: New. Seller Inventory # ABLIING23Feb2416190191405
Book Description Paperback. Condition: New. Brand New! This item is printed on demand. Seller Inventory # 0801478855
Book Description Paperback / softback. Condition: New. New copy - Usually dispatched within 4 working days. This sobering book demonstrates how the interplay between conventional military operations and nuclear forces could inadvertently produce pressures for nuclear escalation. Seller Inventory # B9780801478857