Domestic Determinants of American Strategic Nuclear Doctrine: 1965-1980.
Abstract
This thesis examines the hypothesis that American strategic nuclear doctrine since 1965 has been significantly influenced by multiple domestic variables. This analysis begins with an examination of the changes in American strategic doctrine, as expressed in the Secretary of Defense's annual statement, between 1965-1980. The relationships which precipitated these changes are explored in terms of the following domestic variables: (1) American perceptions of the Soviet threat; (2) Strategic weapons systems development; (3) American public opinion, (4) The personalities of key American policy-makers; and (5) The Vietnam War. Because of the complex inter-relationship between these variables, the modification of strategic doctrine can be accomplished only incrementally and thus rapid doctrinal change is virtually beyond the control of 'grand strategists.' (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA096335
Entities
People
- Marc Arnold Helgeson
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School