Journal Article - Nonproliferation Review
Gas, Norms, and Statistics: The Jury is Still Out
Damir Kovačević, Afrimadona, and Martin Claar's (KAC) statistical adjudication between the potential role of norms versus strategic deterrence in preventing interstate chemical-weapons use is a welcome contribution (Vol. 26, Nos. 3–4, pp. 251–66). The authors conclude that a powerful non-use norm is the most convincing explanation for downtrending chemical warfare. However, closer examination reveals several analytical issues, including inaccurate presentation of data and alternative explanations, that may undermine their results. Further evidence is required to evaluate whether the effect identified by KAC is driven by normative prohibitions or other factors. Use of chemical weapons (CW) also continues with disturbing frequency in contexts not discussed by the authors, where norms against these activities may be more fragile.
KAC enter the debate over norms and deterrence noting a sharp reduction in interstate chemical warfare during the twentieth century....
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For Academic Citation:
Allison, David M and Stephen Herzog. "Gas, Norms, and Statistics: The Jury is Still Out." Nonproliferation Review, vol. 26. no. 5/6. (2019): 397–401 .
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Damir Kovačević, Afrimadona, and Martin Claar's (KAC) statistical adjudication between the potential role of norms versus strategic deterrence in preventing interstate chemical-weapons use is a welcome contribution (Vol. 26, Nos. 3–4, pp. 251–66). The authors conclude that a powerful non-use norm is the most convincing explanation for downtrending chemical warfare. However, closer examination reveals several analytical issues, including inaccurate presentation of data and alternative explanations, that may undermine their results. Further evidence is required to evaluate whether the effect identified by KAC is driven by normative prohibitions or other factors. Use of chemical weapons (CW) also continues with disturbing frequency in contexts not discussed by the authors, where norms against these activities may be more fragile.
KAC enter the debate over norms and deterrence noting a sharp reduction in interstate chemical warfare during the twentieth century....
Want to Read More?
The full text of this publication is available via Nonproliferation Review.Allison, David M and Stephen Herzog. "Gas, Norms, and Statistics: The Jury is Still Out." Nonproliferation Review, vol. 26. no. 5/6. (2019): 397–401 .
- Recommended
- In the Spotlight
- Most Viewed
Recommended
Announcement - Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School
Matthew S. Meselson Honored with the 2019 Future of Life Award for BWC Role
Presentation
Disarming Syria: The Chemical Weapons Challenge
Book - Cornell University Press
Targeting Civilians in War
In the Spotlight
Most Viewed
Analysis & Opinions - Foreign Policy
The Morality of Ukraine's War Is Very Murky
Analysis & Opinions - The Sunday Times
China is Using Every Trick for World Domination
Journal Article - Cold War History
'China Marching with India': India's Cold War Advocacy for the People's Republic of China at the United Nations, 1949–1971