Free Global Elimination of Atomic Bombs Essay Sample
The age of industrialization and technological inventions marked an important period of human development; economically and improvement in the living standards. However, accompanying this period too was an era of development of weapons of mass destruction such as atomic bombs, as different nations sought for a commanding voice in the world economy, political and military power. In relation to this, the second half of the 20th century witnessed massive development of these weapons, being led by the United States of America. The proliferation of atomic bombs among different nations continues to threaten global security. Whereas there have been calls for abolition of these weapons among the Asian countries by the Western world, the United States should lead in supporting the abolishment of proliferation of Atomic Bombs.
Research and Discussion
The commitment of world nations towards achieving an atomic-free society lies squarely on the United States as a result of the fact that it is a global superpower. With this in mind, the American presidents both current and in the future need to emphasize the goal of a world without atomic bombs and commit themselves towards achieving this. In reference to Shultz et al. (2008), Ronald Reagan called for the abolishment of 'all nuclear weapons,' which he considered to be 'totally irrational, totally inhumane, good for nothing but killing, possibly destructive of life on earth and civilization.' The current and future presidents of the United States should emulate Reagan's example and work towards eliminating atomic weapons from the society.
Whereas every nation that has developed atomic weapons has argued that security concerns are the driving force of their actions, this can proved otherwise. Research indicates that atomic bomb production resulted from competition against the superpowers; US being one of them. For instance, there is currently a risk for a new phase in nuclear arms competition through further modernization of weapons (Weapons of Mass Destruction Commission, 2006, p.23). Nevertheless, showing commitment to eliminate these weapons by countries such as the United States would influence other regions to develop a second thought and give room for deliberations. The United States has so far avoided committing itself towards eliminating the production of nuclear associated materials and remained adamant in being involved in programs that support this course of action (Allison, 1996, p.110).
There is need therefore for countries across the globe to come together in unison and make a commitment towards eliminating these weapons in the society, being led by the United States. Notably, without absolute commitment to the eradication of atomic in the U.S., other nations across the globe would not commit themselves to support nonproliferation inspections, rules and controls, over diverse fissile materials. In reference to Krieger (2009), 'abolition of nuclear weapons must come in stages, but if proliferation in the future is to be averted, a true commitment to total abolition of nuclear weapons -banning and eliminating their use and possession -as the truly reigning international goal is no longer to be delayed of equivocated' (p.60).
The enforcement system and verification procedures required to attain this would be ultimate in enhancing U.S. and global security in a period when atomic bombs productions are expected to increase globally. Consequently, the control over atomic bomb production is necessary as this will pave way for disarmament of the already produced atomic bombs. According to Allison (1996), one of the channels that the United States could pursue is to encourage Russia to comply with its arms control commitment (p.134). The enforcement mechanism and verification procedures would also minimize risks of these weapons falling in the wrong hands, i.e. terrorists. So far, there is a growing danger that nuclear materials might fall into the hands of terrorists, or even common criminals who might sell it on to terrorists (Müller-Kraenner, 2008, p.128).
It is important to mention that if deterrence of production of atomic bombs is attained, beginning from the United States of America, then there would be fewer concerns over the issue of proliferation of these weapons. As a result, this would bring an assurance that the world is free of atomic bombs. On the other hand, countries would cease fighting with each other in cold wars since they are assured of their national security.
Whereas there have been calls for abolition of these weapons among the Asian countries by the Western world, the United States should lead in supporting the abolishment of proliferation of Atomic Bombs. As a result, the issue of atomic bomb disarmament continues to be a top international agenda of the United States. The seriousness of the issue has been growing since the Clinton administration which realized the seriousness of the threat of nuclear leakage (Allison, 1996, p.138). Accordingly, the United States would be required to play a critical by serving as an example to other nations in pursuing atomic bomb abolition programs. Failure to make this commitment would as well be equated to preparation for another intense and destructive cold war in future that could devastate global economic, political and security structures.
Therefore, the United States has a responsibility of acting as a leading example in practicing and respecting international treaties that promote the abolishment of atomic bombs since this is the only way that can be used to rid the globe of these weapons and create successful relations. On the contrary, whereas the U.S. is expected to lead the way, it is expected that other countries would reciprocate and join the bandwagon in a co-evolutionary process to attain a world free of atomic bombs.