Threat of force differs from application of force

Evidence

But here a useful distinction can be made between the application of force and the threat of force. Deterrence is concerned with the exploitation of potential force. It is concerned with persuading a potential enemy that he should in his own interest avoid certain courses of activity. — Thomas C. Schelling, The Strategy of Conflict, 29

Categorization

• DEFINE: The application-vs-threat distinction grounds the entire theory of strategy.
• XREF: connects to: Legal obligation differs from mere coercion by threat of force — Ronald M. Dworkin, The Model of Rules, 40; Physical force achieves effects largely free of symbolic preconditions; Uncredible power invites dangerous testing that triggers force (+2 more)

Related

• Deterrence theory is the theory of the skillful nonuse of force (similarity 0.82)
• Power reverses strategies when the threat shifts from the real to simulation (similarity 0.79)

Broader Connections

• Legal obligation differs from mere coercion by threat of force #expands (0.85) — Ronald M. Dworkin, The Model of Rules, 40
• Physical force mediates power’s symbolic and organic levels, differentiating political power #expands (0.78)
• Physical force achieves effects largely free of symbolic preconditions #corroborates (0.75)
• Physical force constitutes power because it asymmetrically orders parties’ relative preferences #expands (0.74)
• Uncredible power invites dangerous testing that triggers force #expands (0.72)