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States Don’t Make Decisions; People Do

In: Economic Instruments of Security Policy

Author

Listed:
  • Gary M. Shiffman
  • James J. Jochum

Abstract

Fundamentally, as the building blocks diagram in figure 1.1 illustrates, human decision making resides at the base of our analysis. To be sure, there exists a complex web of institutions and incentives that may affect the outcome of a policy. The president works with the legislative and judicial branches of government in a U.S.-style democracy. The president also works with the private sector, interest groups, and the diplomatic community. The dictator works within his own system, perhaps affording him some advantages but also imposing limits upon his power. For example, the dictator must earn the loyalty of his generals and secret police leaders. Each person involved in this world—each actor—faces limited resources and must make decisions. Statecraft, the art of leading a country, happens at this precise point. One can influence the actions of a country by influencing the leaders. By influencing the actions of the country, we achieve our goal. Sound policy starts with an understanding of the individual.

Suggested Citation

  • Gary M. Shiffman & James J. Jochum, 2011. "States Don’t Make Decisions; People Do," Palgrave Macmillan Books, in: Economic Instruments of Security Policy, edition 0, chapter 0, pages 3-17, Palgrave Macmillan.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:palchp:978-1-137-12362-6_1
    DOI: 10.1057/9781137123626_1
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