The qualitative arms race; proliferation of advanced technologies

Advances in science and technology have had an enormous impact on international affairs in the last half century, and the pace of change is accelerating. Such rapid technological change is viewed by many with a mixture of hope and apprehension because of, on the one hand, its significant potential for the well-being of humanity and, on the other, its considerable implications for international peace and security. During the cold war, scientific and technological developments came to be regarded as a major driving force behind the arms race, particularly with regard to its qualitative aspects. With the change in the international climate, a new opportunity is offered to use technology for the benefit and advancement of all.

Related Subject(s): Disarmament