Such a "world order" would almost certainly have dictated that diplomatic consultations precede so escalatory a step.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center for Security Policy | Caveat Emptor: A Consumer��s Guide To The Post-Iraq ��World Order��

Earlier, at a separate hearing in Congress, Mr. Clapper played down the latest spate of escalatory talk, suggesting it was bluster.

WSJ: Korean Nuclear Worries Raised

It is clear then, that the use of IW for preemptive purposes could be highly escalatory and unstable in crisis situations.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center for Security Policy | Chinese Information Warfare: A Phantom Menace or Emerging Threat? | Page: 15

However, in the worst-case scenario, preemption could be highly destabilizing and escalatory.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center for Security Policy | Chinese Information Warfare: A Phantom Menace or Emerging Threat? | Page: 14

At a separate hearing in Congress, James Clapper, the director of national intelligence, played down the latest spate of escalatory talk, suggesting it was bluster.

WSJ: U.S. Says North Korea May Have Nuclear Missile

Because escalatory steps must eventually either climb back down or lead to war, there should be a continuing willingness to talk with North Korea and, should it ever shift tack and commit responsible acts, the United States and its allies should be prepared to reward those acts with more fruitful exchanges and assistance.

CNN: Rescind North Korea's license to provoke