Comprehension — quick quiz

Passage: The concept of deterrence has been central to strategic military thinking since the advent of nuclear weapons. Deterrence theory posits that the possession of overwhelming destructive capability prevents adversaries from initiating conflict, as the costs of such aggression would far outweigh any potential gains. However, this doctrine rests on several assumptions: that decision-makers are rational actors, that communication channels between adversaries function effectively, and that both parties have a clear understanding of each other's capabilities and intentions. Critics argue that these assumptions may not hold in all scenarios, particularly when dealing with non-state actors or in situations where miscalculation or technical failure could trigger unintended escalation. Despite these concerns, deterrence remains a cornerstone of modern defence policy, though its application requires constant re-evaluation in light of evolving geopolitical realities. Question: Which of the following represents a limitation of deterrence theory as discussed in the passage?