"No other book combines so much of modern military history with so rich an exploration of related factors in industry, finance, education, and technology, as well as statecraft. Combining strands of history from all these areas, Pearton makes an unusually complete and cogent case for the breakdown of traditional distinctions between the civil and the military, and even between war and peace. This is an excellent work of military and economic history."—Russell F. Weigley, author of The American Way of War

"An illuminating and incisive inquiry into a phenomenon of unquestioned importance. Pearton argues convincingly that the impact of military technology on the state has been so great as to call into question much of the traditional distinction between war and peace. His historical approach adds needed depth and perspective to many contemporary discussions of the arms problem."—International Affairs

"All those involved in the decision-making process of government would do well to study this splendid book."—The Economist