Intelligence Squared The Sunday Debate: Can We Rely on Nuclear Deterrence?
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Oct 9, 2022 In this engaging dialogue, experts Andrey Baklitskiy, Marion Messmer, and William Alberque dissect the pressing issue of nuclear deterrence in today's geopolitical climate. They address the alarming rise in nuclear threats from Russia and reflect on the lessons from the Ukraine conflict. The discussion explores the risks of tactical nuclear weapons and their potential use, as well as the need for effective diplomatic communication. Moreover, they analyze the roles of China and India in the nuclear landscape, emphasizing the importance of global cooperation and security guarantees.
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Mutually Assured Destruction
- Nuclear weapons' immense destructive power, demonstrated in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, led to the concept of mutually assured destruction.
- This concept served as a deterrent during the Cold War, preventing direct conflict between nuclear powers.
Nuclear Weapons and Stability
- Nuclear weapons may have stabilized some relationships, but they haven't brought complete peace.
- Countries will continue to find ways to fight, and nuclear weapons are not the ultimate solution for stability.
Reasons for Nuclear Non-Use
- The absence of nuclear war since 1945 is attributed to luck, horror of their potential, and habit.
- However, changing times might impact these factors, making continued discussions crucial.