

Remembering Robert Jervis, Part I
6 snips Jul 12, 2022
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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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.
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.
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.