Reasoning of state : realists, romantics and rationality in international relations / Brian C. Rathbun

Author: Rathbun, Brian C., 1973-
Published: Cambridge, United Kingdom ; New York, NY : Cambridge University Press, [2019]
Physical Description: xi, 333 pages ; 24 cm.

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Series

Cambridge studies in international relations ; 149

Contents

The psychology of rationality : cognitive style in international relations -- The three Rʹs of international relations : realism, romanticism and rationality -- Little Bismarcks : a laboratory experiment on variation in rational thinking and rational behavior -- The "Prince" among men : Bismarckʹs realpolitik in Prussian politics -- Cold blood and iron : Bismarck, the struggle with Austria and German unification -- Blind faith : Richelieu, the devoted, and France in counter-reformation Europe -- "Blood, toil, tears and sweat" : Churchill, romanticism and the rational appeasement debate -- "In defeat, defiance" : Churchill in words (1935-39) and in deeds (1940) -- "Beginning the world all over again" : resolving the paradox of Ronald Reagan -- Winning one as the Gipper? : Reaganʹs administration and American engagement with the Soviet Union -- Conclusion : the irrationality of rational choice : saving a paradigm from itself.

Summary

"Scholars and citizens tend to assume that rationality guides the decision making of our leaders. Brian Rathbun suggests, however, that if we understand rationality to be a cognitive style premised on a commitment to objectivity and active deliberation, rational leaders are, in fact, the exception - not the norm. Using a unique combination of methods, including laboratory bargaining experiments, archival-based case studies, quantitative textual analysis, and high-level interviews, Rathbun questions some of our basic assumptions about rationality and leadership, with profound implications for the field of international relations. Case studies of Bismarck and Richelieu show that the rationality of realists makes them rare. An examination of Churchill and Reagan, romantics in international politics who sought to overcome obstacles in their path through force of will and personal agency, show what less rationality looks like in foreign policy making"--

Subject(s)

ISBN

9781108427425 hardback alkaline paper
1108427421 hardback alkaline paper
9781108446181 paperback alkaline paper
1108446183 paperback alkaline paper

Bibliography Note

Includes bibliographical references (pages 310-330) and index.

Terms of Use and Reproduction

Current Copyright Fee: GBP10.00 0.

Source of Acquisition

Purchased with funds from the Barbara S. Klein Libraries Collection Endowment in Art History and International Affairs ; 2018

Endowment Note

Barbara S. Klein Libraries Collection Endowment in Art History and International Affairs

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