BOOK REVIEW: PERFECT DETERRENCE

Abstract

Frank C. Zagare and D. Marc Kilgour’s classic work titled “Perfect Deterrence”
is a major addition to the existing scholarly literature on deterrence. The
authors have advocated perfect deterrence instead of classical deterrence whose
importance has receded after the demise of the Soviet Union. Through their deep
insight and innovative research work both scholars have logically, scientifically
and empirically proved that the theory of classical deterrence has inherent flaws.
A nuclear state’s deterrence may vary from time to time because of its intangible
factors. Practically, deterrence is an idea in which an inferior force could deter a
more powerful adversary by virtue of its stock piles of destructive weapons. Zagare
and Kilgour are renowned international relations theorists. They are recognized as
experts in conflict processes, interstate crises and escalation of war, alliance
dynamics and game theory. Their writings have not only influenced the decision
makers but also the experts of rational deterrence.