This book examines the problems posed for mankind by nuclear weapons and searches for practical solutions through historical examples. The author addresses proliferation, ballistic missile defense, disarmament, and the future of nuclear weapons policy. Though Freeman Dyson is a well-respected astrophysicist within his field, he has taken numerous scholarly digressions over the years out of which books have arisen. He often interweaves narratives about his career and life experiences into his arguments, which provides the reader with perspective as to the origins of his views and makes the read more enjoyable. This book is an excellent source for those with limited knowledge of nuclear weapons issues to expand their knowledge on the subject.