Threats and Promises

By - Davis, James W

Floor - Floor 1

Published - Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, 2000

ISBN 10 - 0801862965

ISBN 13 - 9780801862960

Book Status - 1 Qnty Available with us.

Subject - Beloften

Shelf No - 15

Call Number - 327.101 DAV

Physical Description - x, 222 pages

Notes - Includes Index

Book Information

In this work, the author works towards a theory of influence in international politics that recognizes the power of promises and assurances as tools of statecraft. He offers an analytic treatment, drawing on international relations theory, deterrence theory and cognitive and social psychology. Building on prospect theory (from cognitive psychology), he develops a testable theory of influence that suggests promises are most effective when potential aggressors are motivated by a desire to avoid loss. Davis then considers a series of case studies drawn principally from German diplomatic relations in the later 19th century and early 20th century. From the case studies - which focus on such issues as European stability, colonial competition and the outbreak of World War I - Davis shows how a blending of threats and promises according to reasoned principles can lead to a new system of more creative statecraft.

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