Nuclear Deterrence, Morality and Realism

John Finnis, Joseph M. Boyle Jr, Germain Grisez

ISBN 10: 0198247923 / ISBN 13: 9780198247920

Published by Oxford University Press, 1987

Hardcover with dust-jacket. No notes or highlights. Bottom of spine slightly bumped, else only light shelf-wear. Used - Very Good. Seller Inventory # 162-a - 00039

Synopsis:

Nuclear deterrence deserves rigorous, objective ethical analysis. In providing it, the authors of this book face realities - the Soviet threat, possible nuclear holocausts, strategic imperatives - but they also unmask moral evasions - deterrence cannot be bluff, pure counterforce, the lesser (or greater) evil, or a step towards disarmament. They conclude that the deterrent is unjustifiable and examine the new questions of conscience that this raises for everyone. Philosophers; Christian (especially Catholic) intellectuals; political scientists; defence or international relations experts; peace groups.

Review: ' more coherent than many such multiple author ventures. The book will certainly become a source text for the anti-nuclear lobby.' The RUSI Journal

'a most careful and meticulous study of one of the most agonising moral problems of our times.' Month

'a formidable challenge to the moral legitimacy of nuclear deterrence ... exceptionally important ... they write from a well defined and carefully presented position.' The Tablet

' It is the most important contribution so far to the debate over the ethics of nuclear deterrence.' New York Review of Books

'Its philosophical quality is high; its treatment of strategic matters highly competent; ... a challenge to all who read the detailed arguments carefully, whether they be supporters or opponents of nuclear deterrence.' Millenium

'truly remarkable book ... deeply felt, clearly written and precisely argued book about fundamental issues.' Philosophica

'The clarity and precision with which the authors set out the arguments and difficulties should attract everyone concerned about the morality of nuclear deterrence ... This rigorous yet highly readable book compels us to think carefully through the arguments.' Defence and Disarmament

' This book is an important and carefully argued addition to a resurgent literature on the morality of nuclear deterrence. ... the book lives in the mind for the compelling challenge it throws out, through its totally convincing attack on consequentialism, to all those who would justify or condemn nuclear deterrence. It consigns broad acres of past debate to the flames.' The Round Table

'This truly remarkable book ... this deeply felt, clearly written and precisely argued book about fundamental issues.' Philosophica

'probably the most important book in this field [for] ten years ... rigorous yet highly readable.' International Affairs

Bibliographic Details

Title: Nuclear Deterrence, Morality and Realism
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Publication Date: 1987
Binding: Hardcover
Condition: Very Good
Dust Jacket Condition: Dust Jacket Included