285' The phenomenon of deterrence probably existed afready at very early stages ofhuman existence, It is based essentially on the threat of use of force to preventsomeone from ca*ying out his intentions, rt can take the form of either a tirreatto inflict severe consequences in case a certain act rs carried out: deterrenceby punishrnent e or of a thTeat to prevent by force the actual inplementation of theact; deterr:ence by denial. The principle of deterrence has in all iimes servedas a basis for military doctrines for the defence of states. rn the nuctear age,however, the rrreaning of deterrence has acquired totally nev dinensions. 286. Nuclear deterrence in presenl conditions is different from deterrence wlti)conventional veaFons in severa.l vays: it can be inunediate, total and global ,I{ever before have states been abr-e to inflict upon each other arnost instartpunishment. rn the nuclear age it is possible io "."ry out an attack in a marr:erof hoirrs o even rrinutes. Never before have States been able to destroy the verybasis for contlnued existence of other States a'd regions. And never bel.ore has itbeen possible to carry out such destruction on a'y part of the globe, no natterhor.r distant .
**Analysis**
The text discusses the concept of deterrence, specifically in the context of nuclear warfare and its implications for international relations. The text highlights the unique features of nuclear deterrence, such as its immediacy, totality, and global reach. Given the topic's focus on military strategies and international relations, it seems likely that the text belongs to a category related to international relations or security.

**Category**
Defense, International Relations