The Proliferation Puzzle: Why Nuclear Weapons Spread (and What Results)

The Proliferation Puzzle was unique in its scope and approach, offering theoretical discussions and testable hypotheses about the causes and effects of nuclear weapons proliferation. It discusses the acquisition of nuclear weapons as a hedge against external threat, national prestige, or domestic coalitions, as well as questions about civilian command and control. The book brings together scholars from different schools within international relations and the social sciences to address the question of why nuclear weapons spread and provides a deeper understanding of the problem and suggests specific, theory-informed policy recommendations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 362 pages
Publication date: 04 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking volume, originally published in 1993, stands out for its unique scope and approach in the field of nuclear weapons proliferation. Unlike most literature of its time, the essays in this collection delve into theoretical discussions and propose testable hypotheses regarding the causes and consequences of nuclear weapons proliferation. The proliferation of nuclear weapons presents a compelling subject for social science scholarship, particularly in the present context. The book explores various aspects of this complex issue, including:

The intricate process of building nuclear weapons involves numerous social science and international relations disciplines. Nuclear weapons can be acquired for various purposes, such as deterring external threats, enhancing national prestige, or responding to domestic pressures from scientists, bureaucrats, and the military. They can also be sought for defensive or hegemonic objectives. The acquisition of nuclear weapons raises important questions about civilian command and control, particularly in crisis situations.

Over the past two decades, the non-proliferation regime has played a significant role in restricting the acquisition of nuclear weapons. The decisions made by countries regarding their nuclear weapons programs and the methods employed for their development serve as a litmus test for the effectiveness of this regime and international regimes in general.

Nuclear weapons were introduced during the era of bipolarity, which characterized the international order for many years. As the world transitions away from this bipolar structure, there are urgent questions to be addressed. What impact would nuclear weapons have in a multipolar world? How would the spread of nuclear weapons affect the distribution of capabilities among states? Would the introduction of nuclear weapons to additional countries enhance stability or exacerbate existing tensions?

The Proliferation Puzzle offers valuable insights into these and other critical questions related to nuclear weapons proliferation. By examining the historical, political, and social factors that contribute to this phenomenon, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with nuclear weapons development and deployment.

This book is a must-read for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of nuclear weapons proliferation and its implications for global security. Its innovative approach and comprehensive coverage make it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to advance our knowledge and understanding of this critical issue.

Weight: 675g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367543952