Decision-making theory applied to India's explosion of a nuclear device in May, 1974

This essay reviews the decision-making process that led to India exploding a nuclear device in May, 1974. An examination of the Analytic, Cybernetic and Cognitive Theories of decision, will enable a greater understanding of the events that led up to the 1974 test. While each theory is seen to be only partially useful, it is only by synthesising the three theories that a comprehensive account of the 1974 test can be given. To achieve this analysis, literature on decision-making in national security issues is reviewed, as well as the domestic and international environment in which involved decisionmakers operated. Finally, the rationale for the test in 1974 is examined. The conclusion revealed is that the explosion of a nuclear device by India in 1974 was primarily related to improving Indian international prestige among Third World countries and uniting a rapidly disintegrating Indian societal consensus. In themselves, individual decision-making theories were found to be of little use, but a combination of the various elements allowed a greater comprehension of the events leading up to the test than might otherwise have been the case.

County of Welland final estimate of work done on the main drain of the marsh lands by Andrew Mains, unsigned

County of Welland final estimate of work done on the main drain of the marsh lands by Andrew Mains, unsigned. There is a note stating that some of the work is not complete. Estimate no.13, Dec., 1856.

County of Welland final estimate of work done on the main drain of the marsh lands by Alexander Cook

County of Welland final estimate of work done on the main drain of the marsh lands by Alexander Cook complete with notes and calculations of quantities. This document is unsigned. Estimate no.28, Dec., 1857.

Chart of final estimate of work done on section no.10, locks 24, 25 and 26 by Sharp and Quinn

Chart of final estimate of work done on section no.10, locks 24, 25 and 26 by Sharp and Quinn, contractors commenced Nov. 1843 and was finished May 1845.

Chart of final estimate of work done between Port Dalhousie and lock no.2 by Robert Jobson

Chart of final estimate of work done between Port Dalhousie and lock no.2 by Robert Jobson, contractor. The work commenced Nov. 1846 and was finished April 1847 on sections A and B, July 1847.

Chart of land drainage for the Welland Canal final estimate of work done on sections no.1, 2 and 3

Chart of land drainage for the Welland Canal final estimate of work done on sections no.1, 2 and 3 on the road below lock no. 2 leading to Port Dalhousie. Work commenced Nov. 1846 and finished July 1847. Road work and the waste weir no.1 to Port Dalhousie work commenced Aug. 1847 and finished Sept. 1847, Nov.1, 1847.