Dhaka, Aug. 23 -- 'Chest-thumping', as a mark of patriotism can leave one with a satisfying 'feel-good' experience. In recent times we have seen a lot of it on either side of the India-Pakistan border, in total disregard of the consequences a serious conflict. The jingoists seem to fall over themselves in the advocacy of one, without much thought to what it might entail. This essay is an effort to inculcate a sobering influence, with a discussion of the horrendous consequences of an all-out war. Such an event could be the result of a 'crisis-slide', the beginnings of which are already perceptible.

In today's international system, the formal institutions mandated to preserve peace are weakening. The big powers appear to be according maxim...