Assured Quote by Jerry Pournelle
“Mutually Assured Destruction, MAD, works only as long as it works; it does not know what to do if deterrence fails, for it envisions no defensive capabilities. A deterrent works until it is needed; then one needs defenses.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Nuclear Strategy, Jerry Pournelle, 1990
Deterrence works only while threats exist; without defenses, a system fails when aggression occurs.
In simple terms: Deterrence needs defenses to be effective.
Key Takeaway
Balance deterrence with credible defensive capabilities.
Themes
security
deterrence
military strategy
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
theoretical
policy
When to use this quote
- policy planning
- defense budgeting
- international negotiations
Key Concepts
mutual assured destruction
defensive doctrine
strategic stability
Questions to Reflect On
- What defenses complement deterrence?
- How to ensure deterrence remains credible?
A Different Perspective
Overreliance on deterrence can invite complacency.
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