This book is written to convince you, the reader, that if our civilization – indeed, the human species – is to survive in this nuclear age, war of all types will have to be abolished and peaceful means found to solve disputes. Over the centuries it has been the common view that war is an acceptable way of settling conflicts of interest. That is not to say that it has always been seen as the most desirable way, but as one readily to be undertaken. The principle has been, if you cannot get what you want by negotiation, then try force provided you stand a good chance of winning.