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The Decision to Attack Iraq

Author

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  • Alex Mintz

    (Texas A&M University)

Abstract

This article attempts to explain the decision to use force against Iraq using a noncompensatory theory of decision making. Rather than choosing an alternative that maximizes utility on the basis of a holistic comparison process as suggested by the expected utility model, or selecting an alternative that “satisfices†a certain criterion as predicted by the cybernetic model, the noncompensatory theory suggests that decisions on the use of force are often made based on the rejection of undesirable alternatives on the basis of one, or at most a few, criteria.

Suggested Citation

  • Alex Mintz, 1993. "The Decision to Attack Iraq," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 37(4), pages 595-618, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jocore:v:37:y:1993:i:4:p:595-618
    DOI: 10.1177/0022002793037004001
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    References listed on IDEAS

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