The Biological Weapons Taboo

The non-use of biological weapons is the great mystery of biological warfare, and the Biological Weapons Taboo solves this mystery by examining the bioweapons taboo, why they are perceived as repulsive, and how this sentiment is expressed in political behaviors. It looks back on US foreign policy decision-making to demonstrate how and why the taboo has shaped biowarfare strategy and political rhetoric and proposes a new model of understanding based on the normative characteristics of disgust, stigmatization, and fetishization.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The non-use of biological weapons has remained a profound mystery in the realm of biological warfare, shrouded in secrecy and intrigue. To unravel this enigma, Dr. Bentley's groundbreaking work, "The Biological Weapons Taboo," emerges as a comprehensive exploration of the very concept. Through meticulous analysis, Bentley sheds light on the pervasive perception that bioweapons are repulsive, delving into the underlying reasons behind this sentiment and its manifestation in political behaviors, such as the steadfast refusal to engage in biological aggression.

Drawing upon extensive archival evidence, this volume offers a retrospective examination of United States foreign policy decision-making, particularly in relation to the Geneva Protocol and the Biological Weapons Convention. By scrutinizing how the bioweapons taboo has played a pivotal role in shaping both biowarfare strategy and political rhetoric, Bentley demonstrates the significance of recognizing this taboo as a critical factor in the study of bioweapons.

In addition to its analytical insights, "The Biological Weapons Taboo" pushes the boundaries of the debate on international norms by questioning and challenging prevailing understandings of the taboo itself. Bentley proposes a novel and innovative model of understanding, grounded in the normative characteristics of disgust, stigmatization, and fetishization. This model offers a fresh perspective on the taboo, challenging the conventional definitions and expanding our comprehension of its complexities.

By delving into the taboo surrounding bioweapons, "The Biological Weapons Taboo" provides valuable insights into the ethical, political, and strategic dimensions of this contentious topic. It serves as a crucial resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in comprehending the complexities of biological warfare and the enduring impact of the bioweapons taboo.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 242 x 161 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198892151