Mechanistic Realism and US Foreign Policy - A New Framework for Analysis (Paperback)

This book aims to reinvigorate realist international relations theory by developing a catalogue of micro-mechanisms able to explain security policy decision-making. Typically, realism discounts the role of individuals and uses states as the unit of analysis. By examining instead the mental operations of those who act on behalf of the state, a better understanding of security policy formation is attainable. The book demonstrates how realism can be translated from a systemic "grand theory" into a catalogue of psychologically plausible mechanisms applicable to individual decision-makers. This catalogue, here called "Mechanistic Realism", may be employed to investigate the cognitive precursors to security policy. The explanatory power of Mechanistic Realism is demonstrated through a meticulous analysis of what transpired inside the George W. Bush administration, as its members forged a response to the 2001 terrorist attacks. Through the exploration of individual-level data, Mechanistic Realism provides a more comprehensive analysis of the US response. The book concludes that international relations (IR) scholars would benefit analytically by assembling the most pertinent mechanisms into an explanatory toolbox rather than developing and applying grand theories. Mechanistic Realism is a first step in this direction. This book should be of great interest to students of IR, foreign policy, American politics, and security studies in general. .

General

Imprint:	Routledge
Country of origin:	United Kingdom
Series:	Contemporary Security Studies
Release date:	August 2018
First published:	2013
Authors:	Johannes Gullestad Ro
Dimensions:	234 x 156mm (L x W)
Format:	Paperback
Pages:	180
ISBN-13:	978-1-138-37709-7
Categories:	Books > Social sciences > Warfare & defence > General Books > Reference & Interdisciplinary > Interdisciplinary studies > Peace studies > General Books > Social sciences > Politics & government > Political activism > Armed conflict Promotions
LSN:	1-138-37709-0
Barcode:	9781138377097

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