Definition
A situation in which defensive measures taken by one state increase other states' insecurity and may trigger mutual armament.
Theoretical Context
Even defensive military preparations can look threatening to neighbours and trigger reciprocal mobilisation. Robert Jervis examined how the dilemma changes when defensive and offensive capabilities are difficult to distinguish. The mechanism is different from intentional military aggression.
Key Thinkers
John Herz
Robert Jervis
Examples in Practice
01
Reciprocal defensive build-ups
A defensive deployment by one state may lead another to mobilise even without an initial intent to attack.