The Implications of Preemptive and Preventive War Doctrines: A Reconsideration - Softcover

Gray, Colin S

Softcover

ISBN 10: 128824598X ISBN 13: 9781288245987

Publisher: Bibliogov, 2012

Synopsis

Preemption and prevention are different concepts. To preempt is to attempt to strike first against an enemy who is in the process of preparing, or is actually launching, an attack against you. Preemption is not controversial. The decision for war has been taken out of your hands. Prevention, however, is a decision to wage war, or conduct a strike, so as to prevent a far more dangerous context maturing in the future. To decide on preventive war is to elect to prevent a particular, very threatening strategic future from coming to pass. Despite much legal argument, there is no legal difficulty with either concept. The UN Charter, with its recognition of the inherent right of sovereign states to self-defense, as generally interpreted around the world does not require a victim or target state to suffer the first blow. To strike preventively in self-defense is legal, though it will usually be controversial. Preventive war is simply war, distinguishable only by its timing, and possibly its motivation.

About this title

About the Author

Colin S. Gray is Professor of International Politics and Director of the Center for Security Studies at the University of Hull and European Director of the National Institute for Public Policy (U. S.). He is the author of many books, including Weapons Don't Make War: Policy, Strategy, and Military Technology (1993) and The Leverage of Sea Power: The Strategic Advantage of Navies in War (1992). In 1987 Dr. Gray received the Distinguished Public Service Award from the U. S. Navy for his contribution to the development of maritime strategy.

Edition details

• Publisher: Bibliogov
• Publication date: 2012
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 128824598X
• ISBN 13: 9781288245987
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 74