This is not a book for those ignorant of the basics of political science. In fact, I believe its contents can best be appreciated by those with some knowledge of International Relations Theory or Foreign Policy. If you're educated in neither of these areas, perhaps you will find On War a little more challenging, as it is more of an academic text, laden with terms and specifics.
In short, Aron outlines some of the key interpretations of Cold War politics, during a time when the Cold War was, so to speak, in 'full swing.' He discusses mutually assured destruction, nuclear disarmament and the possibility of peace through it. He's a realist to the bone, noting that weapons don't cause war and therefore a lack of weapons cannot prevent it.
Interestingly, Aron points out that states were preparing for a war they did not want (nuclear), while refusing and failing to prepare for another kind of war--traditional war. In hindsight, most students of the Cold War will note that traditional war cost many more lives in the twentieth century than the feared nuclear weapons.
Although I found the book rather dry, it does contain a fascinating perception and is perfect for any reader of non-fiction looking to get an accurate picture of the dominant ideas that critics and political scientists had begun to discuss during the era.
