In this conversation, guests Colin Kahl, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy; Mira Rapp-Hooper from the National Security Council; and Derek Chollet, Counselor of the State Department, reflect on the extraordinary legacy of Robert Jervis, their mentor. They share insights on Jervis's unique mentorship that combined psychological insights with policy analysis. The discussion touches on his approach to humility in scholarship, the importance of recognizing cognitive biases in leadership, and his influential theories on signaling in international relations.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Kahl's Choice
Colin Kahl chose Columbia specifically to study under Robert Jervis after reading his article on intelligence failures before the Iraq War.
Jervis's work was brave and persuasive, challenging Kahl's own beliefs.
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Jervis's Office
Jervis's office, filled with books and papers, reflected his deep engagement with knowledge.
Despite his scholarly appearance, Jervis maintained an open-door policy, welcoming students and colleagues for intellectual discussions.
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Chollet's Path
Derek Chollet first met Jervis through Dennis Ross at the State Department.
Jervis supported Chollet's non-academic career path, demonstrating his open-mindedness and focus on individual growth.
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Robert Jervis's "The Nuclear Revolution" is a significant contribution to the study of nuclear strategy and international security. It examines the impact of nuclear weapons on international relations, focusing on the dynamics of deterrence and arms control. Jervis analyzes the complexities of nuclear proliferation and the risks of escalation. The book challenges conventional wisdom about nuclear strategy, offering valuable insights for policymakers and scholars. It highlights the importance of understanding the unique characteristics of nuclear weapons and the need for careful management. The book's analysis remains highly relevant in today's nuclear age.
System Effects
System Effects
Robert Jervis
Robert Jervis's "System Effects" offers a unique perspective on international relations by integrating insights from various disciplines, including biology and evolution. It explores how systemic factors influence state behavior and international outcomes. Jervis examines the interplay of structure and agency, highlighting the limitations of traditional approaches. The book challenges conventional wisdom by incorporating concepts from complex systems theory. It provides a more nuanced understanding of international politics, emphasizing the interconnectedness of events and actors. The book's interdisciplinary approach remains highly influential.
Why intelligence fails
Why intelligence fails
Robert Jervis
Robert Jervis's "Why Intelligence Fails" delves into the reasons behind intelligence failures in international relations. It examines various factors contributing to inaccurate assessments, including cognitive biases, bureaucratic structures, and political pressures. Jervis analyzes specific case studies to illustrate how these factors interact and lead to flawed intelligence. The book challenges conventional wisdom about intelligence gathering and analysis, offering valuable insights for policymakers and intelligence professionals. It highlights the importance of understanding the limitations of intelligence and the need for critical evaluation. The book's analysis remains highly relevant in today's complex geopolitical landscape.
The logic of images in international relations
Robert Jervis
Robert Jervis's "The Logic of Images in International Relations" examines how images and perceptions shape state behavior and international outcomes. It explores the role of cognitive biases and psychological factors in decision-making. Jervis analyzes how images can lead to misperceptions and conflict, highlighting the importance of understanding how states see each other. The book challenges traditional realist approaches by incorporating insights from psychology and social science. It provides a more nuanced understanding of international politics, emphasizing the role of perceptions and beliefs. The book's analysis remains highly relevant today.
Perception and misperception in international politics
Robert Jervis
Robert Jervis's "Perception and Misperception in International Politics" is a seminal work in international relations theory. It explores how cognitive biases and psychological factors influence decision-making in international affairs. Jervis examines how misperceptions can lead to conflict and cooperation, emphasizing the role of images, assumptions, and expectations. The book challenges traditional realist approaches by incorporating insights from psychology and social science. Its impact on the field is profound, shaping how scholars and policymakers understand international relations. The book remains highly relevant today.
Many of those who follow War on the Rocks and the Texas National Security Review mourned the passing of Robert Jervis, the towering scholar of international relations who defined a field and mentored generations of scholars and policymakers. Four of his close friends, colleagues, and protégés sat down to remember his legacy, his intellectual contributions, and his kindness. It is a fascinating discussion that touches on a variety of important issues related to international security. This episode, which is the first of two parts, is hosted by Francis Gavin of the Kissinger Center and chair of the editorial board of the Texas National Security Review. He is joined by Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl; Mira Rapp-Hooper, a member of the staff of the National Security Council, where she is responsible for an array of Indo-Pacific issues; and Derek Chollet, the counselor of the State Department. The views expressed here, of course, are personal and not those of the U.S. government.
Horns of a Dilemma 
