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Modeling the 1973 Soviet Decision to Support Egypt

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 August 2014

Philip D. Stewart ,
Margaret G. Hermann  and
Charles F. Hermann
Philip D. Stewart
Affiliation:
Ohio State University
Margaret G. Hermann
Affiliation:
Ohio State University
Charles F. Hermann
Affiliation:
Ohio State University
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Abstract

We present a contingency model of Soviet foreign policy making that focuses on decision making in the Politburo. The model is designed around three questions and shows how the answers to these questions determine the likely nature of the decision the Politburo will reach at any point in time. The questions are (1) Whose positions on the Politburo are critical to making a decision? (2) What are the positions or preferences of those who count on the issue under consideration? (3) How are disagreements among these individuals handled? The model is illustrated by examining the Soviet decision to increase significantly the numbers and types of weapons delivered to Egypt in early 1973. Of interest in this case is accounting for the shift in Soviet policy from refusing Egypt offensive weapons to providing them.

Type
Articles
Information
American Political Science Review , Volume 83 , Issue 1 , March 1989 , pp. 35 - 59
Copyright
Copyright © American Political Science Association 1989

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