The Politics of Nuclear Disarmament: Obstacles to and Opportunities for Eliminating Nuclear Weapons

This book examines the political conditions and obstacles necessary for the five official Nuclear Weapon States (NWS) to eliminate their nuclear weapons, including the perspectives of elite actors and public opinion. It critically explores different approaches to and theories of disarmament within legal, political, and technical literatures and orthodox and critical theory. It contributes to theoretical debates about how domestic politics interact with and determine states' international behavior and will be of interest to scholars and students of history, politics, international relations, security studies, military history, war studies, peace studies, conflict, democracy, and global governance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics that must be established and the formidable challenges that must be overcome for the five official Nuclear Weapon States (NWS) – China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States – to relinquish their nuclear weapons. It offers a profound exploration of diverse perspectives and positions held by various actors, encompassing both elite viewpoints and public opinion, and uncovers the underlying political assumptions that shape these viewpoints. By critically examining the lack of detailed analysis regarding the significance of nuclear disarmament for the domestic political orders of NWS, the book endeavors to develop a more democratic approach to disarmament.

Drawing from a wide range of legal, political, and technical literatures, as well as orthodox and critical theory, the book conducts a rigorous examination of different approaches to and theories of disarmament. It builds upon previous discussions on nuclear possession, restraint, arms control, and disarmament, encompassing both nuclear possessor and non-possessor states. This analysis identifies valuable insights into how NWS disarmament can be advanced, contributing to ongoing theoretical debates concerning the interplay between domestic politics and states' international behavior.

With its multidisciplinary approach, this book appeals to scholars and students across a broad spectrum of disciplines, including history, politics, international relations, security studies, military history, war studies, peace studies, conflict, democracy, and global governance. It provides valuable insights and perspectives that will enrich the understanding of these critical issues and contribute to the pursuit of a safer and more peaceful world.

Weight: 378g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367743765