Global resources and international conflict

Book · Wed Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1986

OSTI ID:5833298

Westing, A H

This book discusses how the geographical distribution, availability, and degradation of the world's natural resource influence the international security perceptions that govern strategic policies and the use of military force. Global deficiencies, coupled with uneven distribution of resources, can lead to unlikely, and therefore unstable, alliances, to national rivalries, and even to war. The study includes detailed analysis of various key resources - oil, natural gas, and other vital minerals, fresh waters, ocean fisheries, and food crops - which are likely to lead to interstate disputes and conflicts. The effect of differential population growth on the actual and perceived availability of resources and on the resultant international behaviour of states is also examined. One of the major challenges in the world today is how to ensure access to global resources in a way that will avoid international conflict. In recognition of this challenge the study concludes with an expanded, environmentally-based concept of international security.

• OSTI ID: 5833298
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
290400 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Energy Resources
292000 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Supply
Demand & Forecasting
293000 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Policy
Legislation
& Regulation
294002* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Petroleum
294003 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Natural Gas
AGRICULTURE
ATTITUDES
AVAILABILITY
BEHAVIOR
ENERGY SOURCES
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
FISHERIES
FLUIDS
FOOD
FOSSIL FUELS
FUEL GAS
FUELS
GAS FUELS
GASES
GLOBAL ASPECTS
INDUSTRY
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
MINERALS
NATURAL GAS
PETROLEUM
POPULATION DYNAMICS
RESERVES
RESOURCE ASSESSMENT
RESOURCES
SECURITY
WARFARE