Rethinking the relevance of self-deterrence

Michaels, Jeffrey H.

doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.55540/0031-1723.3275

Rethinking the relevance of self-deterrence

Citation

Michaels JH. Rethinking the relevance of self-deterrence. Parameters. 2024 Spring;54(1):107-22. DOI: 10.55540/0031-1723.3275

Abstract

Self-deterrence is critically understudied in deterrence theory. Similarly, deterrence practitioners prefer to focus on adversaries’ threats rather than seeking to account for the full scope of fears influencing the decision calculus of policymakers. Through historical case studies, this article identifies where self-deterrence has occurred, highlights the benefits of incorporating the concept in future strategic planning and intelligence assessments, and recommends that policymakers, strategists, and analysts acknowledge self-deterrence as an important factor when preparing for future wars.