Special Issue: Understanding Globalization: Theories, Challenges and Impacts Volume 1 Number 2 2008 Page: 201-237

Two Simple Models of Nuclear Transparency

Roger G. JOHNSTON, Morten Bremer MAERLI, Edward G. BITZER, III, James David BALLARD

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this paper is to draw attention to the concept of transparency. The paper begins by discussing the often-misunderstood nature of transparency and offers an alternative explanation as conceptualized by the authors. In addition, various subcomponents of transparency are introduced and explained. Then two simple, but useful, models are introduced in an attempt to help clarify the way in which the authors view the concept. Both models are based on analogies that draw loosely from the field of optics. The first model employs clouds and refraction whereas the second invokes lines of sight and the transmitting properties of a window. Finally, predictions based on the two models are proposed.

KEYWORDS

Transparency, nuclear arms control, non-proliferation, nation state interaction, optics

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