NUCLEAR UNIVERSALITY AND ITS THEORETICAL CRITIQUE

One of the most controversial logics related to the spread of nuclear weapons is the theory of "more may be better" which was put forward in the early 1980s by the theorist of neorealism (structural realism) theory، Kenneth Waltz. This theory that is followed by different responses، is a theory according to which، gradual spread (horizontal) of nuclear weapons to other countries should not lead to anxiety and fear, rather it should be welcomed. The main aim of this article is theoretical critique of this viewpoint and explanation of the sort of relation between nuclear spread and regional and global security or insecurity. The issue that this article is about to answer and explain is that whether this issue, the spread of nuclear weapons in the regional and global level, results in stability and security or, on the contrary, in insecurity and instability. This article reasons that any increase in the number of nuclear club members, not only is not followed by international and regional stability and security consistently and permanently, but it will increase and intensify the risk of confrontation and nuclear war. In this article, first, to get on the point, the history of nuclear spread is pointed out, and after explaining the nuclear deterrence concept, motivations and intentions of nuclearization, as well as the theoretical critique of the neorealism theory. We will address the analysis and critique of the viewpoints of proponents and opponents of nuclear spread. Finally, some guidelines are provided to maintain international and regional peace and security.