Q&A · 2:54:32-2:54:43

Confidence in negotiation can weaken recognition of military threats

A follow-up about threat perception considers whether political confidence in negotiation weakens the incentive to prepare.

British Defence Policy Civil Military Relations

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Question

Why do politicians fail to recognize that the threat is real?

Short answer

The suggested explanation is overconfidence that negotiation and personal political skill can resolve the problem.

Notes

One explanation offered is that politicians can overestimate their ability to resolve threats through discussion. Confidence in personal judgment and negotiation may then weaken their sense that military preparation is necessary.