Evolution of Deterrence Theory

Deterrence is the use of threats to convince an adversary from taking an action and is part of a larger concept of coercion. Throughout history, deterrence has been used by people and states to manage conflict. The formal development of deterrence theory came about after World War II specifically to find ways to think about and utilize nuclear weapons. This course examines the foundational concepts of deterrence theory and how that theory has evolved since 1945, with a particular emphasis on how theory has informed practitioners—both military and civilian—who manage the nuclear enterprise. In addition, we consider the application of deterrence to international security in the cold war and post-cold war years. Finally, we assess current nuclear arsenals and strategy along with the role deterrence continues to play in the future of nuclear weapons, as well as application of deterrence theory to non-nuclear strategic weapons. This course is designed especially for national security professionals, although it is open to anyone.