The conflict between democratic values and nuclear deterrence policy.

What is it about?

The paper explores whether the secrecy required by nuclear deterrence policy violates democratic values of transparency and accountability. It also asks how citizens should act in circumstances where political leaders might be required by policy constraints to lie about their own views on the use of nuclear weapons.

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Why is it important?

Politicians in countries that are nuclear powers, either coming into office, or with hopes of forming a government, are often asked their views on the maintenance of a nuclear deterrent. This paper helps us to understand some of the problems with contemporary public debate and treatment of politicians in these circumstances.