Realism and Liberalism in Decision-Making Groups

The shared understanding or interpretation of a problem within a group, often formed despite individual members' differing private views.

A set of beliefs, assumptions, and values that shape how individuals perceive and understand the world, especially in relation to international relations.

A theoretical approach in international relations that emphasizes national interest, power, and security, often leading to a focus on military strength and strategic competition.

A theoretical approach in international relations that emphasizes cooperation, diplomacy, and the pursuit of shared interests, often promoting international institutions and norms.

The process of identifying and analyzing elements of a problem representation to determine whether it aligns more closely with a realist or liberal worldview.

A worldview shapes a state's actions by influencing how its decision-makers interpret events and situations. This includes their understanding of other actors, how they interact, and what actions are appropriate, which directly affects their foreign policy choices.

A worldview comprises individuals' assumptions about other actors in the world, their relationships, and appropriate courses of action. It influences their understanding and interpretation of events.

The worldview of a state's decision-makers shapes how they interpret events, leading to different approaches to foreign policy. For example, in the 1980s, some believed cooperation with the Soviet Union would lead to more aggression, while others disagreed.

Axleord's cognitive mapping and George's operational codes provide a framework for analyzing and mapping the elements of an individual's worldview. This approach can be used to understand the detailed decision-making processes of specific leaders.

While mapping an individual's worldview offers insights, it is challenging to apply in situations with multiple decision-makers. Additionally, these maps may not be easily generalizable to others.