Decision Making Lesson 21-International Relations-Lecture Handout, Exercises of International Relations

Download Decision Making Lesson 21-International Relations-Lecture Handout and more Exercises International Relations in PDF only on Docsity! International Relations-PSC 201 VU © Copyright Virtual University of Pakistan 72 LESSON 31 DECISION MAKING (CONTINUED) Decision Making Processes Astute decision making requires: • Identification of shortfalls • Clarification of feasible objectives • Obtaining relevant facts and identification of alternative • Obtaining feedback during implementation to make policy modifications Decision makers must avoid getting so preoccupied with mechanics of policy making that they ignore policy content. Actual results emerging from a policy can differ from perceived objectives but it is difficult to take all variables into account while formulating a policy decision Decision Making Theories Organizational Process Model: views the state as an organization obtaining input from different units to reach a decision. Following this model can result in a bounded rather than a comprehensive viewpoint due to the splitting up and compartmentalization of problems. Rational Actor Model: considers states as monolithic entities whose leaders try to maximize national interests as a whole (Kissinger amongst others has favored this model of how states should make decisions). Group Politics Model: uses a bureaucratic framework in which different departments/agencies pursue their own vested interests as well as collective national interests. Personality Process Model: in addition to information and processes, the personality model focuses on cognitive and emotional factors in reaching decisions. Difficulties in Decision Making • Cognitive nearsightedness and the urge to make decisions to satisfy immediate needs must be overcome for more sustainable outcomes. • Oversimplification can lead to dealing with symptoms instead of problems resulting in immature and inadequate decisions. • Myopic perspectives without consultation and accommodation of different views lead to narrow minded policies. • Preconceived notions or distortion of facts can be used to justify favored decisions. • Prioritization is necessary given the numerous problems contending for a decision maker's attention. • Making a right choice after through consideration of all relevant facts and alternatives is not easy. docsity.com