Robert G. Spulak Jr.

In the following viewpoint, Robert G. Spulak Jr. argues that the United States should retain all of its nuclear weapons. He contends that a strong nuclear arsenal deters attacks on the U.S. and bolsters U.S. influence around the world. Spulak is a senior analyst at the Strategic Studies Center of Sandia National Laboratories, a national security laboratory that designs non-nuclear components of nuclear weapons, conducts energy research, and studies national security threats. He has authored numerous reports on weapon systems, technologies, and policies related to national security.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. In the author’s opinion, why are nuclear weapons stigmatized"

2. According to Spulak, why are nuclear weapons uniquely effective for deterring attacks"

3. Why is credibility important in maintaining a...