Create a new account

It's simple, and free.

Chemical and Biological Weapons The term "chemical and biological warfare," or "

The term "chemical and biological warfare," or "CBW" as abbreviated by the U.S. military, refers to war waged by the dissemination of toxic chemicals or biologicals from the air or on the surface of the earth. CBW offers an alternative to traditional methods of destruction because people or their food supplies may be attacked without leveling surrounding areas. In addition, CBW is a means of military strength in a world in which the finality of atomic annihilation is not an option.

The benefits of CBW from a military perspective will be discussed, as well as the consequences of such action. It will become apparent that an army is better equipped to control its chemical, rather than biological, arsenal. Because of the idiosyncratic nature of pathogens as opposed to chemicals, microorganisms pose unique problems. A ban on biological weapons in 1972 sought to remedy this fact. Even so, biological weapons research continues today, in spite of a signed treaty and public opposition.

There is no such ban on chemical weapons, however. The nerve gases, defoliants, and herbicides used in the Viet Nam War are still used today. Chemical and biological weapons will be discussed in an historical context to show that "gas" warfare is considered more humanea "higher form of killing," as one author put itthan death by infection.

Both methods of incapacitating or killing are still being developed today. Any first class military power is prepared to defend itself against such warfare and, as a minimum, to wage chemical warfare. Although both methods are inexpensive and easy to obtain, a stigma is attached to biological killing.

Most leaders have recognized the insidious nature of using microorganisms since ancient times. In The Killing Winds, Anne McDermott opens with a Roman condemnation of well poisoning, one of the earliest methods of killing by germs: "Armis Bella Non Venenis Geri" (War is waged with weapons, not wit...

Page 1 of 8 Next >

More on Chemical and Biological Weapons The term "chemical and biological warfare," or "...

Loading...
APA     MLA     Chicago
Chemical and Biological Weapons The term "chemical and biological warfare," or ". (1969, December 31). In LotsofEssays.com. Retrieved 09:14, March 28, 2024, from https://www.lotsofessays.com/viewpaper/1700114.html