From Nuclear Military Strategy to a World Without War (ISBN 0275962423)

Necessary Reading to Understand a Nuclear World:
This book is truly thought-provoking, and Dr. Hilsman deserves high praise for even tackling the subject of what we can do to avoid a nuclear war. He has written superbly of past nuclear policies, such as deterrence strategies of the United States and Russia. It is quite apparent that he was close to the centers of power during much of the most dangerous time, and he offers insights into the Kennedy administration especially. His possible solutions, including a world government, are less satisfying than his recounting of the history of the problem. He himself admits we are not likely to see a true world government which could be the legitimate exerciser of power, but he does propose some other measures which could lessen the possibilities of nuclear war. He makes a valid point in that in some ways our present international organizations are carrying out some of the functions of a world government and causing nuclear war to be less thinkable. The book is well worth reading, even if you don't agree with the author's conclusions. His summations of the history of the nuclear situation are truly masterful and should be read by all serious persons who know how close we have come to the final nightmare and how we are not yet free of some high risks.

Books Serves Critical Warning:
This sobering book, authored by a former head of State Department Intelligence during the Kennedy Administration, warns against the delusion that "mutually assured destruction" continues preventing nuclear warfare. Indeed, at the rate the world is progressing, nuclear warfare is likely. Can we comfortable look at crises in India-Pakistan, the Middle East, Iran-Iraq, and the two Koreas and conclude that nuclear war is impossible? Further, should the current government in Russia fall, can we be certain its replacement will not be one that rekindles some Cold War aspects? Roger Hilsman's book is fascinating in two aspects. It first serves as a detailed yet readable history of nuclear weapons policies. It then presents a thoughtful yet controversial proposal on what the author argues will prevent nuclear war. Nuclear war can be started by nations or by terrorists, Hilsman warns. Leaders can miscalculate, be insane, or lose control of situations. During war, all three such possibilities can easily occur. Hilsman's conclusion that a world government replacing nationalistic desires (which causes most wars) and that is capable of policing rogue nuclear threats is the only solution is a conclusion bound to provoke dissension. Indeed, even Hilsman realizes such an eventuality will be impossible for some time. National pride is too strong for nations to give power to a higher governmental authority. Still, the thought this is the only way to prevent a nuclear catastrophe should create concern. If the world can recognize the dangers and begin moving in this direction (which is possible as evidenced by Europe's acceptance of the European Community), there is hope.