From M.A.D. to M.A.S. is strategic evolution

During Cold War paranoia, M.A.D., or Mutually Assured Destruction, kept the two superpowers from pressing the big red button by promising instant vaporisation for all. Today, after much deliberation, we propose its enlightened version: M.A.S., or Mutually Assured Satisfaction.

Instead of nukes, nations can go crazy by pleasing their perceived rival. To save face, the other country will have to not merely reciprocate but up the game. Mexico allowing zero tariffs for US goods is met fiercely by reciprocal zero tariffs, PLUS free mobility to Mexicans to the US.

Ukraine not only gives up its off-and-on claim to join Nato, but declares itself Swiss-style neutral. Russia, in exchange, reacts by sending considerable aid to rebuild damaged and destroyed Ukrainian cities. Israel allows its Palestinian citizens to legally live anywhere in the state of Israel, with FoPs (Friends of Palestinians) ensuring that Hamas and their likes take up farming. India allows Pakistan to play cricket matches on its soil. Pakistan, confused, packs off Asim Munir to a San Diego ashram.


M.A.S. can become a true strategic doctrine whereby every nation agrees that if one state escalates tensions, all others will retaliate with overwhelming hospitality. M.A.S. isn't naive. It's tactical tenderness, the geopolitical equivalent of 'death by a hundred hugs'.