Little Boy to Star Wars the Evolution of American Deterrence.
Abstract
Follows the historical and sociological development of the American deterrent posture in the nuclear age since the its dawn at Alamagordo, New Mexico, 16 July 1945, and the use of the Little Boy over Hiroshima three weeks later. A description of Western man's involvement in and reaction to pre-1945 catastrophic circumstance is followed by a comparative examination of the post-1945 changes in national policy in regard to the use and dangers of total war. Using Bernard Brodie as a theoretical deterrent baseline, the author analyzes the ethical and military shifts in U.S. declaratory (versus actual) nuclear policy, through Paul Nitze's statements of future policy in light of strategic defense. Author concludes that extremely effective--not necessarily perfect--defenses can based dramatically beneficial effects on arms control. But at the same time, such a condition must inevitably result in a de factor reversion of U.S. nuclear policy to that of a small, non-counterforce force de frappe deterrent-similar in effect to that of the present French posture. The implications of, this upon U.S.-Soviet force balance, the historical trends of the 'American Way of War,' and the present deterrent mind-set of the officer corps, is lift as a grave concern.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA178523
Entities
People
- Michael E. Havey
Organizations
- Air War College