The relationship between democracy and foreign policy has always been controversial. Whether good or bad, the influence of public opinion --a central factor in all democracies--on political decision making is more important than ever. This book examines what we know about nature, content, and influence of public opinion on matters of war and peace. By thorough analysis of survey data from European countries and the United States, it discusses how the end of the Cold War affected popular attitude.

This book explores the intersection of the study of transatlantic relationships and the study of public support for the use of force in foreign policy. It contributes to two important debates: one about the nature of transatlantic partnership, and another about the determinants of support for the use of military force in a comparative perspective.

This book explores the intersection of the study of transatlantic relationships and the study of public support for the use of force in foreign policy. It contributes to two important debates: one about the nature of transatlantic partnership, and another about the determinants of support for the use of military force in a comparative perspective.

The relationship between democracy and foreign policy has always been controversial. Whether good or bad, the influence of public opinion - a central factor in all democracies - on political decisionmaking in matters of war and peace is more important than ever. How has the end of the Cold War affected popular attitudes in Western Europe and the USA? Is the public no longer willing to tolerate military casualties, or is that a myth that serves as a welcome alibi for hesitant politicians?