The attractiveness of Adam Lowther’s study of American nuclear weapons policy is that it explains the complexities of the issue in very clear terms. It will help all readers understand the debate. In particular, it frames the issue of nuclear weapons in relationship to the most basic concept of primary importance—how we view American strength in the world.

Nuclear weapons policy has recently gained national exposure by the fact that the president declared a desire to reduce the number of nuclear weapons with a final goal of eliminating them all together. The other factor that gave yeast to the...

On 5 April 2009, the president of the United States stood before a cheering crowd in Hradcany Square in the Czech Republic’s capital of Prague. He spoke at length about his desire to continue reforming America’s nuclear enterprise, including pursuing additional nonproliferation agreements with the world’s nuclear powers.¹

There can be little doubt that 2009 and 2010 are certain to be historic years for the United States. With the country facing economic and security challenges, tough choices regarding defense spending and national security strategy are likely to come, and they may significantly affect nuclear weapons policy. Although the president’s efforts...