Mind Sets and Missiles: A New Paradigm for Global Security

The traditional approach to nuclear deterrence, based on rational choice theory, is flawed because it fails to take into account the psychological and social factors that influence decision-making in times of crisis. This book develops a new paradigm for deterrence, based on the concept of 'mind sets', and shows how this paradigm can be used to improve the effectiveness of deterrence and reduce the risk of nuclear war.

The Traditional Approach to Deterrence

The traditional approach to deterrence is based on the assumption that states are rational actors who will make decisions based on a cost-benefit analysis. According to this view, deterrence is effective if it convinces the potential aggressor that the costs of aggression outweigh the benefits. However, this assumption is flawed because it fails to take into account the psychological and social factors that can influence decision-making in times of crisis.

Mind-sets and Missiles: A First Hand Account of the Cuban Missile Crisis

by Kenneth Michael Absher

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	796 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	124 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	148 pages
Reading age	:	4 years and up
Grade level	:	10 - 12
Item Weight	:	3.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.15 x 6.34 x 0.31 inches

FREE

In times of crisis, leaders are often under immense pressure and may make decisions that are not in their own best interests. They may be swayed by emotions, such as fear or anger, or by cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias or groupthink. They may also be influenced by their own personal experiences or by the organizational culture in which they are embedded.

The New Paradigm for Deterrence

The new paradigm for deterrence, based on the concept of 'mind sets', takes into account the psychological and social factors that can influence decision-making in times of crisis. Mind sets are defined as "the cognitive structures that individuals use to organize and interpret information about the world." They are shaped by our experiences, beliefs, and values, and they influence our perceptions, judgments, and decision-making.

The new paradigm for deterrence argues that the effectiveness of deterrence depends on the mind sets of the leaders who make decisions about whether or not to use nuclear weapons. If the leaders have a mind set that is conducive to deterrence, they will be more likely to make decisions that are in the best interests of their own country and the world. However, if the leaders have a mind set that is not conducive to deterrence, they may be more likely to make decisions that increase the risk of nuclear war.

The Impact of Mind Sets on Deterrence

The research in this book shows that mind sets can have a significant impact on deterrence. For example, leaders who have a mind set that is characterized by trust and cooperation are more likely to be willing to negotiate and compromise, while leaders who have a mind set that is characterized by fear and distrust are more likely to be aggressive and confrontational.

The book also shows that mind sets can be changed. Through education, training, and other interventions, it is possible to shift leaders' mind sets in a direction that is more conducive to deterrence. This can be done by providing leaders with accurate information about the risks of nuclear war, by helping them to develop empathy for their adversaries, and by teaching them how to manage their emotions and cognitive biases.

The new paradigm for deterrence, based on the concept of 'mind sets', provides a more realistic and effective approach to reducing the risk of nuclear war. By taking into account the psychological and social factors that influence decision-making in times of crisis, we can develop strategies that are more likely to deter aggression and promote peace.

This book is essential reading for anyone who is interested in nuclear deterrence, global security, or the psychology of decision-making.

Mind-sets and Missiles: A First Hand Account of the Cuban Missile Crisis

by Kenneth Michael Absher

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	796 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	124 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	148 pages
Reading age	:	4 years and up
Grade level	:	10 - 12
Item Weight	:	3.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.15 x 6.34 x 0.31 inches

FREE