Introduction

Abstract

This book examines the spread of nuclear weapons and how to curb it. It discusses the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT), the chief global political instrument operating to restrain the spread of nuclear weapons, in the context of the uptake of nuclear energy for commercial reasons. It also considers international relations theory, with special reference to rational choice approaches; the inspection procedures adopted by the International Atomic Energy Agency; regional nuclear-free zones; the NPT in the context of the United States' non-proliferation policy, and vice versa.