The Influence of Realism and Neoconservatism on U.S. Nuclear Policy after the End of the Cold War

Abstract

The article describes the role oftwo major idea sets in U.S. nuclear policy-making after the end ofthe Cold War. The analysis discusses briefly key points of the on going debate in international relations. According to realists, accumulation of military power is the only rational choice for states given the anarchic nature of international system. Since Russia and her arsenal are still viewed as an existential threat to America, Cold War conception of strategic stability must be maintained. U.S. nuclear forces are perceived as an insurance against reemerging of hostile relations with Moscow. Preoccupation with the Russian threat is also the feature of neoconservative movement that shaped American policy since 2001. Apart from deterring Russia, this idea considers it necessary to prepare American arsenal to challenge regional adversaries, especially the so-called rogue states. This leads to transformation of U.S. nuclear policy towards capabilities-based planning emphasizing new missions for nuclear weapons and their overall greater importance.