The Anatomy of Deterrence

Bernard Brodie

ResearchPublished 1958

Another in a series of studies concerned with the general theory of air strategy in a nuclear age. The present study deals with some of the peculiar and historically novel requirements of a deterrence posture. The argument presented is that modern deterrence is like traditional deterrence in some respects, but differs in that today deterrence of total war is considered a policy that must go permanently unchallenged. A deterrence strategy diverges significantly from a strategy which emphasizes ability to win if war comes. (Also published as P-1405.)

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Document Details

  • Copyright: RAND Corporation
  • Availability: Web Only
  • Year: 1958
  • Pages: 35
  • Document Number: RM-2218

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Brodie, Bernard, The Anatomy of Deterrence. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1958. https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_memoranda/RM2218.html.
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