Can Defense Spending Be Justified during a Period of Continual Peace?
Abstract
This study investigates the nature of defense and analyzes defense spending in an economic-rationality framework. It attempts to find justification for defense spending within such a framework. Indeed, defense spending in a period of continual peace is an insurance against the wrath of a violent enemy. There is no market mechanism to determine the 'correct' amount of defense to be acquired vis-a-vis the security desired. How much is required depends solely on the assessments of defense planners and decisions of political leaders. In war there is no substitute for victory. When called upon, the nation's armed forces must be able to decisively defeat the enemy. The key to defense spending in a period of continual peace is in adopting a strategy which exploits the reduced risk of war. A smaller standing armed force, astute intelligence and rapid mobilization are vital elements of such a strategy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 07, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA240084
Entities
People
- Kai-yew Chong
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College