Traditional Deterrence Theory

This research examines the applicability and effectiveness of traditional deterrence theory, especially as voiced by Thomas Schelling and critiqued by Janice Gross Stein. Traditional deterrence theory will be analyzed for its explanatory power for conflict resolution by applying its tenets to General William T. Sherman's "March to the Sea" during the course of the Civil War. The basic philosophy of deterrence theory will be described through the works of Schelling and others, and how well this philosophy functioned in reducing conflict will be tested in light of Sherman's military strategy.

"I think there are a lot of threats we wouldn't know how to deter," said Thomas Schelling, a Harvard economist often described as the father of deterrence theory. He cites a chilling string of contemporary crises in which deterrence theory appeared to have failed: the American fai

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liation fails to deter aggression, the conflict can best be limited by immediately and thoroughly carrying out the threat of massive retaliation. The sooner the aggressor is convinced that the costs of aggression will be extremely high, the sooner the aggressor will submit and end the conflict. Any suggestion of weakness of resolve, as would occur if the offended nation fails to conduct a swift and massive military retaliation, will result in prolonged conflict. In Schelling's perspective, conflict is most effectively limited, ironically, by pledging and waging massive and disproportionate military retaliation. Schelling's model of deterrence is very much what General William Tecumseh Sherman had in mind in his brutal "March to the Sea"--a military strategy that has subsequently brought Sherman controversial recognition as one of the nation's first modern strategists. Sherman's "March to the Sea" Although much of his life was wrought with disappointing business and legal ventures, and even a dismissal from military service which encouraged Sherman to pursue legal training, William Tecumseh Sherman ended up welcome in the Union army with the onslaught of the Civil War. Early in his career from 1859 to 1861, Sherman attained a pos
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Approximate Word count = 3734
Approximate Pages = 15 (250 words per page)

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