ABSTRACT
The first problem to consider in any ‘intervention’ study lies in the definition of the word. Within the literature there are expressions of caution that: ‘A definition of “intervention” wide enough to take in all the meanings attached to the word will be masked by imprecision’.1 The conclusion to be drawn from this truism is of the desirability of concentrating upon one aspect within the broad spectrum of coercive intervention. Within that spectrum, which includes many diverse forms, be they diplomatic, political, financial, economic or military, this work represents a study of the last of these: military intervention.
