William S. Cohen

In the following viewpoint, William S. Cohen, the secretary of defense, argues in favor of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), an international treaty banning the production and use of chemical weapons. Cohen contends that the CWC will prevent the proliferation of these weapons, thereby reducing the risk of chemical warfare.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to Cohen, why is the CWC verifiable"

2. In the author’s opinion, what effect will the CWC have on U.S. industry"

3. How should the United States deter regional aggressors, in Cohen’s view"

In ancient times, Greek city-states assailed enemies with the noxious fumes of smoldering pitch and sulfur while Chinese warriors wafted arsenic-laced smoke screens against their foes. As we approach the next millennium, we face the prospect of regional aggressors, third-rate armies...