Assessing Military Capability in Policy Context

Questions and Answers

They exist at all times and in all situations.

Nation-state

Because they have specific characteristics that impact decision-making.

It is an important factor affecting the power of a state. Signup and view all the answers

The policymakers and decision-makers. Signup and view all the answers

It has a significant impact on the policy of a nation. Signup and view all the answers

To identify the key policymakers and their characteristics. Signup and view all the answers

Leadership is an important factor affecting national power. Signup and view all the answers

They were all influential leaders who impacted the power of their nations. Signup and view all the answers

It is doubtful that it would have proceeded in the same way if someone other than Mao Tse-Tung had been its leader. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Military capability must be assessed in relation to specific policy objectives and conditions, as its utility can be limited in certain situations.
Military strength is a vital cornerstone for the exercise of capability, and must be assessed quantitatively and qualitatively.

Diplomacy is the brain of national power and plays a central role in formulating and implementing foreign policies.
Diplomats must navigate international relations, respecting international law, sovereignty, and non-intervention in other states' internal affairs.
The efficiency of diplomats in bringing potential capabilities to bear on problems is crucial, especially in short-run crises.

Governments must allocate limited resources between domestic and foreign policies, and among various external programs.
The organization and operation of the governmental system can facilitate or hinder the decision-making process.
Authoritarian governments do not necessarily possess advantages in decision-making, as they can be hindered by inefficiencies and competing interests.

Leadership is crucial in evaluating national power, as individual policymakers can greatly impact decision-making.
Key personnel in the decision-making process must be identified and analyzed, as they can shape international politics.
Historical examples, such as Napoleon, Hitler, and Gorbachev, demonstrate the significance of individual leaders in shaping national power.