What were the calculations made by the US and its major allies in the 1960s when they faced the signing of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)? These were all states with the technological and financial capabilities to develop and possess nuclear weapons should they wish to do so. In the end, only the United Kingdom and France became nuclear weapon states. Eventually, all of them joined the non-proliferation regime.
Leading American, British, Canadian, French, German and Japanese scholars consider key questions that faced the signatories to the NPT:
- How imperative was nuclear deterrence in facing the perceived threat to their country?
- How reliable did they think the US extended deterrence was, and how costly would an independent deterrent be both financially and politically?
- Was there a regional option?
- How much future was there in the civilian nuclear energy sector for their country and what role would the NPT play in this area?
- What capabilities needed to be preserved for the country’s future and how could this be made compatible with the NPT?
- What were the determining factors of deciding whether to join the NPT?
Pay easily by card, Klarna, Apple Pay or Google Pay. Not happy? You always have a 14-day money-back guarantee. Read more in our terms. If you have any questions, email us at hello@memmo.org.
Memmo makes studying easier – wherever you are in the world. We bring your course books and smart study tools together in one place: summaries, quizzes, podcasts and flashcards. Plus Ted, your study buddy who answers anything you wonder. Over 50,000 students already study here – built to help you learn faster and stress less.