This updated and revised through 1993 edition of an immensely successful textbook reflects upheavals in the global geopolitical climate, and examines why countries continue to build war arsenals in a time of relative peace. As an increasing number of countries gain nuclear capabilities and the number of intranational and regional conflicts grow, it becomes apparent that the end of the Cold War did not end the threat of war. Instructors considering this book for use in a course may request an examination copy here.