What are the disadvantages of deterrence?

Answer 1

Deterrence can lead to an escalation of tensions, as states may engage in an arms race to outmatch each other, increasing the risk of conflict. It often relies on the assumption that adversaries will act rationally, which may not always be the case. Additionally, deterrence can foster a false sense of security, potentially leading to complacency in addressing underlying issues or conflicts. Lastly, it may not effectively deter non-state actors or rogue regimes, complicating international security dynamics.