Over the course of history, nations -- in the quest for their own security -- have fallen back back on their own military strength and alliance systems. But these ostensible solutions to the problem of national security failed to prevent World Wars I and II, as well as numerous other wars. This sobering experience led, in the 20th century, to the conclusion that another path toward national security should be explored: international organization. Although international organization has not, as yet, proved a panacea, it has been more promising than its alternatives. As a result, the strengthening of the United Nations -- or perhaps its reshaping into a democratic federation of nations -- might yet help create a new and better world.