Another perspective on North Korea

Americans assume that Kim Jong-il is a delusional psychopath. In reality, however, he is a rational actor who seeks to maximize his power.

Furthermore, he does not seek a nuclear weapon simply to induce an American nuclear strike on his country — there are easier ways to accomplish suicide, if that is his goal. This begs the question, Why would North Korea relentlessly seek nuclear arms if they are unable to utilize them? The answer is simple — to hold the bomb for political power.

Power is a zero-sum gain in international relations. Any advantage that one state gains is a loss to another. Nuclear capabilities will certainly increase North Korea’s power, which implies other states will lose power.

The most important distinction is America’s inability to use military force without substantial damage from nuclear retaliation by the North Koreans. By simply possessing a nuclear bomb, North Korea will nullify one of America’s greatest political assets: its conventional military.

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