Leaders and War

Flashcards covering key concepts related to leadership and war as discussed in the lecture notes.

Unitary Actor

An assumption in war theories that treats states as single, cohesive entities when analyzing foreign policy.

Diversionary Conflict

A situation in which leaders initiate conflict abroad to distract the public from domestic issues.

The Rally Effect

The phenomenon where a leader's approval rating increases during a crisis or war due to public support.

Political Survival

The need for leaders to maintain their position and power, often influencing their decisions regarding military action.

High-Cost Wars

Conflicts that lead to substantial loss of life and resources, often resulting in higher likelihood of leader replacement.

In Group-Out Group Hypothesis

A concept suggesting that external threats create cohesive support within a group, often bolstering a leader's position.

Empirical Evidence

Data supporting claims about leader behavior and the use of military force under certain conditions, such as economic downturns.

Military Experience

Previous experience in military service, which influences a leader's likelihood to initiate conflict.

Political Costs of War

The negative repercussions leaders face, such as loss of office, following costly military engagements.

Leadership Change Ex Ante

The effects of anticipating a change in leadership on foreign policy behavior and decision-making regarding conflict.