For crisis stability to have its desired effect, the most important condition is to maintain a
A) secure second-strike capability.
B) preponderance of nuclear weapons on one side.
C) high level of uncertainty as to the number of nuclear weapons controlled by the other country.
D) degree of irrationality among the leadership.

Question

For crisis stability to have its desired effect, the most important condition is to maintain a
A) secure second-strike capability.
B) preponderance of nuclear weapons on one side.
C) high level of uncertainty as to the number of nuclear weapons controlled by the other country.
D) degree of irrationality among the leadership.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A secure second-strike capability means that a country has enough nuclear weapons and delivery systems that can still carry out a devastating attack even after absorbing an initial nuclear strike from an adversary. This creates a balance of power and deterrence, as the adversary knows that even if it launches a first strike, it will still face massive retaliation. This reduces the likelihood of a crisis escalating into a full-scale nuclear war. The other choices, such as preponderance of nuclear weapons, uncertainty, or irrationality, can actually destabilize the crisis and increase the risk of unintended nuclear use.

For Crisis Stability to Have Its Desired Effect, the Most