Able Quote by Herman Kahn
“The widespread diffusion of nuclear weapons would make many nations able, and in some cases also create the pressure, to aggravate an on-going crisis, or even touch off a war between two other powers for purposes of their own.”
About This Quote
Source Book: On Escalation, 1962
The spread of nuclear arms creates strategic pressure that can intensify crises or trigger wars between unrelated powers.
In simple terms: Nuclear spread raises crisis pressure and war risk.
Key Takeaway
Limit nuclear proliferation.
Themes
security
strategy
escalation
Mood
cautious
serious
Type
strategic
policy
When to use this quote
- policy negotiations
- defense planning
- international treaties
Key Concepts
deterrence theory
geopolitics
risk assessment
Questions to Reflect On
- How can deterrence be balanced with stability?
- What incentives reduce nuclear ambitions?
A Different Perspective
Proliferation may be driven by perceived security needs.
