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Analyzing Soviet Images of the United States

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  • Richard K. Herrmann

    (Department of Political Science, Ohio State University)

Abstract

Interpretations of Soviet foreign policy often rest on assumptions about Soviet perceptions of the United States. This article presents a method for inferring Soviet perceptions. The effort builds on theories that are related to the analysis of perception in foreign policy decision-making and complements other empirical studies of Soviet statements. The article analyzes Soviet images at two levels: (1) media coverage of four regional conflicts, and (2) Politburo speeches. The media analysis concentrates on four cases—the Horn of Africa 1977-1978, North and South Yemen 1979, Iran 1978-1979, and Afghanistan 1979. The Politburo speeches cover the era of détente 1971-1978. The article finds that the view of the United States that prevails in Moscow resembles a well-known enemy stereotype. The enemy imagery is found to prevail at both levels and indicates a significant perception of threat, and possibly the relevance of an “inherent bad faith†model.

Suggested Citation

  • Richard K. Herrmann, 1985. "Analyzing Soviet Images of the United States," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 29(4), pages 665-697, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jocore:v:29:y:1985:i:4:p:665-697
    DOI: 10.1177/0022002785029004008
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Axelrod, Robert & Zimmerman, William, 1981. "The Soviet Press on Soviet Foreign Policy: A Usually Reliable Source," British Journal of Political Science, Cambridge University Press, vol. 11(2), pages 183-200, April.
    2. Zimmerman, William & Palmer, Glenn, 1983. "Words and Deeds in Soviet Foreign Policy: The Case of Soviet Military Expenditures," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 77(2), pages 358-367, June.
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