Definition
Proliferation is the spread of weapons of mass destruction- namely nuclear weapons, but also ballistic missiles and chemical or biological weapons- into the hands of more actors. Poor states and middle powers want ballistic missles capable of delivering nuclear weapons, or if that is infeasible, then chemical or biological weapons. This capability is desired because it provides states with a potentially powerful means of leverage in international conflicts- a threat to cause extreme damage that is impossible to defend against. Because the only practical counterleverage is a threat to retaliate in kind, states also want ballistic missles with weapons of mass destruction in order to deter their use by others. This causes an obvious security dilemma. The implications of nuclear proliferation for international relations are difficult to predict, but evidently profound.
General overview and discussions
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UC Davis International Relations