ABSTRACT
One of the most controversial - and important - questions underlying debate on Soviet intentions, detente, and strategic arms limitations in particular, has concerned the Soviet view on mutual deterrence. This chapter seeks to illuminate Soviet thinking on the subject, with consideration of the inter-relationship of Soviet ideological beliefs, political imperatives and calculation, military views and doctrine, and their intersection and reconciliation in Soviet policy. The Soviet leaders believe that peaceful coexistence - with continued political and ideological competition-is the preferable alternative to an unrestrained arms race and to recurring high-risk political-military confrontation. Soviet military doctrine continues to be predicated on the assumption that if a general nuclear war should occur, all elements of the armed forces would contribute to waging a decisive struggle aimed at defeating world imperialism.
