Whether nuclear, biological, or chemical in nature, weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) have been used by groups and governments for centuries. They represent the most advanced and dangerous weapons offered by contemporary scientists and engineers. The fears surrounding WMDs are more pertinent today than ever before. Although many governments adhere to strict international treaties regarding the management of their stocks, rogue governments and terrorist groups represent an unpredictable and volatile variable. The potential damage of these weapons is too great a risk to be taken lightly, and their existence remains a grave concern for the global community.

Frank Lahiffe studied law and publicrelations and has held positions in advertising marketing, public relations and journalism. He was appointed by successive Governments as adviser to Seamus Brennan throughout an entire Government career which spanned 21 years (1987-2008) across nine Government departments.

After leaving Government service on the retirement of Seamus Brennan, Frank went on to become a Public Affairs Consultant with his own business, Lahiffe & Associates, Public Affairs and Political Communications.
Michael Kort is a professor of social science at Boston University and holds a Ph.D. in history from New York University. He is the author of the Soviet Colossus: A History of the USSR, Sixth Edition and Facts On File's A Brief History of Russia.
Foreword author Cathal J. Nolan is an associate professor of history at Boston University and executive director of the International History Institute. He holds a Ph.D. in international history and international relations and a diploma in international human rights. Nolan has published extensively in the field of international relations and global affairs and won the 2006 Outstanding Teaching Award for the Honors Program at Boston University's College of Arts and Sciences.

Whether nuclear, biological, or chemical in nature, weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) have been used by groups and governments for centuries. They represent the most advanced and dangerous weapons offered by contemporary scientists and engineers. The fears surrounding WMDs are more pertinent today than ever before. Although many governments adhere to strict international treaties regarding the management of their stocks, rogue governments and terrorist groups represent an unpredictable and volatile variable. The potential damage of these weapons is too great a risk to be taken lightly, and their existence remains a grave concern for the global community.Weapons of Mass Destructionexamines the biggest concerns governments must address concerning WMDs. The book first discusses the history of these weapons, their use by ancient and medieval armies, and how they have evolved over time. The second chapter examines how the United States has handled WMDs over time, including its attack on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in an attempt to end World War II. It also summarizes current U.S. policy regarding WMDs, the arsenal it currently possesses, and how it would cope with and respond to a WMD attack. The third chapter offers an international perspective, with case studies of how Russia, Israel and the Middle East, India and Pakistan, and North Korea have determined their approach toward these weapons. These case studies reveal how each region and country depends on its neighbors' vigilance and responsibility to prevent a worldwide catastrophe. Part II offers a selection of primary source documents and part III assembles useful research tools.

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Excerpted from Weapons of Mass Destruction by Michael Kort
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