How should the nation deal with its stockpile of nuclear weapons?

Option 1: Build up the stockpile of nuclear weapons.

Option 2: Maintain the stockpile of nuclear weapons at current levels.

Pro: A stockpile of nuclear weapons deters other nations from using theirs.

Con: Maintaining a stockpile of nuclear weapons is expensive; the money used for this purpose can be better spent on more constructive programs.

Option 3: Work toward a multilateral reduction in the stockpile of nuclear weapons.

Option 4: Begin a unilateral reduction in the stockpile of nuclear weapons.

Con: A dangerous upset to the balance of power will occur with the unilateral reduction in the stockpile of nuclear weapons. Other nations will regard the move as a sign of weakness, and they are likely to exploit the situation to our disadvantage.