Whether we realise it or not, many actors in international relations already apply psychology—however imperfectly—when trying to predict how other actors will behave. The problem is that these efforts are often piecemeal, inconsistent and lacking in psychological sophistication. What is needed is deeper collaboration between psychologists, political scientists and policymakers, combining strategic empathy with empirical research to create more accurate models of leadership behaviour. In international relations, we devote enormous energy to understanding states, but the decisions that shape global politics are ultimately made by individuals. World leaders all bring their own personalities, biases and motivations to the negotiating table. By understanding the psychology of those leaders, we can better anticipate and interpret their behaviour.
Inside the minds of power: psychological analysis in security | The Strategist
