The Cybernetic Theory of Decision

by Steinbruner, John D.

• ISBN13: 9780691094878
• ISBN10: 069109487X
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2002-08-05
• Publisher: Princeton Univ Pr

Summary

In this classic 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 behavioral 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 analyzes the issue of sharing nuclear weapons among the NATO allies.

Table of Contents

List of Figures	ix
Preface to the Second Paperback Edition	xi
Preface	xxi
Introduction	3	(22)
Part One: Paradigms of the Decision Process
The Analytic Paradigm	25	(22)
The Cybernetic Paradigm	47	(41)
Cognitive Processes	88	(52)
Politics and Policy	140	(13)
Part Two: The Politics of Nuclear Sharing: 1956-1964
Strains in the Alliance: Genesis of a Two-Value Problem	153	(20)
The Development of Nuclear Sharing Proposals: 1956-1960	173	(26)
The Rise of the Multilateral Force: 196I-1963	199	(49)
Ascendancy and Sudden Death of the Multilateral Force: 1963-1964	248	(79)
Epilogue: Conclusions and Implications	327	(16)
Bibliography	343	(18)
Index	361