Relationship Between Deterrence and Great Power Competition (GPC)

WS5510- WEEK 3 DQ RESPONSES
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Ws5510- Week 3 DQ Responses
Feedback toward Cody’s Response in Question 3A
I agree that deterrence and Great Power Competition (GPC) shape one another. The concept of deterrence is closely tied to the concept of power, as one must be able to project power to deter other countries from taking specific actions. In this sense, GPC shapes deterrence by driving countries to develop and maintain powerful military and economic capabilities to deter other countries from taking action. Conversely, deterrence also shapes GPC by creating a balance of power through the threat of punishment. Countries can use the threat of military, economic, or even diplomatic means to deter other countries from actions they deem unacceptable. Besides, this creates a “dance” between countries since each is waiting for the other to make a move and respond in kind.
The author also argues that nuclear deterrence, in particular, shapes GPC more than other forms of deterrence. Nuclear weapons are considered the “big hammer” of most devastating weapons, and countries with nuclear capabilities are often guaranteed a seat at the negotiating table. The nuclear umbrella policy of the U.S. assures NATO and other allies that their defense is assured with the arsenal of weapons the U.S. is willing to threaten on their behalf, deterring would-be adversaries (Vergun, U.S. Nuclear Umbrella Extends to Allies, 2019).
In conclusion, deterrence and GPC shape one another in a complex and dynamic relationship. The concept of deterrence is closely tied to the concept of power, and countries use the threat of punishment to deter other countries from taking specific actions. On the other hand, GPC also shapes d...