This lesson introduces the security dilemma, explains why states can come into conflict despite seeking security, and connects the concept to defensive realism.
The security dilemma, also called the spiral model, occurs when one state takes steps to improve its security—such as building up its military—and other states interpret those steps as possible preparation for aggression. Because states cannot know each other's intentions with certainty, they may respond by strengthening their own forces.
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What is the security dilemma?
It is a situation in which one state's security measures make other states feel less secure, prompting reactions that can leave all parties worse off.
Who coined the term security dilemma?
German scholar John H. Herz coined the term in a 1950 study.
What was Butterfield's distinctive interpretation of the security dilemma?
Herbert Butterfield described an “absolute predicament and irreducible dilemma,” regarded it as the root cause of all war, and emphasized fear and humanity's capacity to do evil.
What does defensive realism say about the security dilemma?
It explains how survival-seeking states in an anarchic system can be drawn into conflict through uncertainty and reciprocal security measures, while allowing that the dilemma can sometimes be escaped.
How do preventive war and preemptive war differ?
Preventive war responds to an expected future shift in the balance of power; preemptive war responds to a feared imminent attack.
Quiz questions
In Jervis's framework, when is the security dilemma most intense?Answer: When offensive and defensive behavior are indistinguishable and offense has the advantage.
What does the deterrence model seek to persuade a potential attacker to believe?Answer: That using force will not be worthwhile.
What is immediate deterrence intended to prevent?Answer: A short-term or near-term threat of attack.
According to Charles Glaser, how should analysts assess weapons that can serve offensive or defensive purposes?Answer: Compare their net effects when both sides use them with their effects when neither does.
What does the spiral model emphasize as states move toward conflict?Answer: Fear and reciprocal insecurity arising from mutual suspicion.
Based on the Wikipedia article Security dilemma, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.