Explain the concept of collective security.

Collective security refers to a framework in international relations where states agree to respond as a unified group to threats against peace or aggression directed towards any member of the group. This concept is rooted in the idea that the security of one member is intrinsically linked to the security of all members. When a state is threatened, the collective response signals an international commitment to maintain peace and deter aggression, fostering a sense of mutual responsibility.

The essence of collective security lies in the commitment to support each other, ideally through diplomatic resolution but, if necessary, combined military action. This approach is intended to prevent conflicts from escalating by ensuring that aggressive actions will provoke a unified response rather than isolated reactions from individual states.

The other options provided do not accurately reflect the core principles of collective security. For example, disbanding military forces would contradict the purpose of being prepared collectively to defend against threats. Unilateral actions taken by states do not embody the cooperative spirit of collective security, as they can lead to isolated responses and potential escalation of conflicts. Lastly, while economic policies can be part of a broader strategy of international cooperation, they do not align specifically with the concept of collective security, which primarily focuses on military and peacekeeping responses to aggression.