Volume LI – Number 2
Dr. Joseph R. Clark
Abstract: Thinking strategically about policy options regarding North Korea’s nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs requires consideration of the political ends sought by Washington and Pyongyang. It also requires consideration of the policy means by which each side may pursue said ends. This paper puts forth a logic for doing just that. It begins by differentiating the terms strategic and strategy. Then, it considers the objectives and relevant capabilities of each nation-state. Throughout the paper the potential effects of each nation-state’s choices, actions, and instruments are given consideration based on the political objectives identified. The paper concludes with a brief consideration of the effects of strategic orientation and the risks presented by some of the choices before American policymakers.
Keywords: North Korea, nuclear weapons, strategic, strategy, foreign policy
About the Author: Dr. Joseph R. Clark serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science at Towson University.
