Deterrence theory is a strategy put forth during the Cold War that encouraged arms build ups to the point where the powers in question would be too scared to use their weapons. No sides involved would initiate a war for fear of retaliation. Because the theory asserted that the aggression of one's opponent would be prevented by the showing of military might, the build up of military force in the United States and in the Soviet Union were seen to be beneficial.

The theory is weakened if there is a misunderstanding of the rationale of the opponent. Further weakening the theory are the developments of counter-alliances.

This theory says little to nothing about how to change the motives of the opponent(s).

External links

• Revisiting Nuclear Deterrence Theory (http://www.abolishnukes.com/short_essays/deterrence_theory_whitmore.html) by Donald C. Whitmore - March 1, 1998
• Nuclear Deterrence, Missile Defenses, and Global Instability (http://www.wagingpeace.org/articles/2001/04/00_krieger_nuclear-deterrence.htm) by David Krieger, April 2001
• Bibliography (http://www.ocf.berkeley.edu/~paulmacd/cwbiblio.htm)