| This study demonstrates the effect experience has on leaders' responses to changes in the external environment. With a particular emphasis on U.S.-Soviet relations, in-depth case studies specifically address why, given changes similar in intensity although not content, Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan altered policy toward the Soviet Union based on actions taken by the Kremlin, while Dwight D. Eisenhower and George Bush did not.; Approaches to international relations that focus on the individual decision makers involved in political situations are utilized in this inquiry. The characteristics of the leader's belief system, that is, the level of complexity of the belief system created through experience, is viewed as the determining factor in whether or not responses to external stimuli demonstrate flexibility or constraint. The literature on belief systems, belief perseverance, and attribution theory are employed to create an understanding of policy change or perseverance when external events would appear to call the current policy into question.; The main argument presented is that attitudes formed from extensive foreign policy experience persevere and usually lead the actor to inflexibility in policy formation. This type of leader has developed a “complex belief structure,” which limits the options available to the policy maker. Extensive experience in government service left Dwight. D. Eisenhower and George Bush unable to adjust to new situations created by the U.S.S.R. They incorporated new information into those structures without altering an existing belief.; Lack of policy-making experience allows for flexibility in responding to changes in the external environment. Beliefs about the nature of the opponent are not as entrenched in leaders who approach policy making from a fresh perspective. Those with no policy-making experience have more of a capacity to interpret new information and adjust their existing belief system. This type of leader has a “simple belief structure.” Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan, who had little or no experience with the Soviets before assuming the presidency, were able to learn from actions taken by Moscow, altering their beliefs and adjusting in response. In sum, for continuity, experience pays. For appropriate response to external change, it may actually be a hindrance. |
