This volume, written by a set of experienced analysts and officials, is a first-rate primer to the next issue in European security. It reminds us that, ultimately, it is the postwar shape of Europe that is at stake. Unfortunately, the considerable common ground in the various chapters is less than encouraging about prospects, especially when Soviet leader Gorbachev has already captured the high ground. For the consensus is clearer about what NATO must refuse than about what it can accept: it should refuse anything less than large and very asymmetrical reductions in tanks and other heavy equipment, and nuclear weapons must be kept out of the negotiations. And, at least until now, the French approach to the issue has been "just say non."