The Cybernetic Theory of Decision: New Dimensions of Political Analysis

(Paperback, Revised edition)

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In this work, John Steinbruner argues that the time is ripe for exploration of a new theoretical perspective on the decision-making process in government. He suggests that the cybernetic theory of decision, as developed in such diverse fields as information theory, mathematical logic and behavioural psychology, generates a systematic but non-rational analysis that seems to explain quite naturally decisions that are puzzling when viewed from the rational perspective. When combined with the basic understanding of human mental operations developed in cognitive psychology, the cybernetic theory of decision presents a striking picture of how decision makers deal with the intense uncertainty and fundamental value conflicts that arise in bureaucratic politics. To illustrate the advantages of using cybernetic theory, Steinbruner analyses the issue of sharing nuclear weapons among the NATO allies.

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"A stimulating and challenging work, almost two books in one, which applies cybernetics and psychology to the politics of the multilateral nuclear force and the nuclear sharing issue in the period of 1956-1964. Steinbruner's important and creative study successfully adds a new dimension to our understanding of decision-making."--Foreign Affairs "Likely to prove one of those few path-breaking efforts of conceptual synthesis which will be influencing our thinking about government and policy-making for many years to come."--I. M. Destler, Arms Control Today

Author Bio

John D. Steinbruner is Professor of Public Policy at the University of Maryland, where he directs the Center for International and Security Studies. He is a Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution and a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. His many books include, most recently, "Principles of Global Security".