A theory of state behavior under threat the tragedy of domestic realism
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Authors
Khoury, Omar Fuad Ayyoub.
Subjects
Advisors
Biermann, Rafael
Kadhim, Abbas
Date of Issue
2007-03
Date
Publisher
Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This thesis introduces the theory of domestic realism to explain and predict state behavior under threat. The formulation of the theory relies on a dual track approach. The first is eclectic and deductive; this track utilizes concepts from diverse fields, especially from International Relations theory, to build the theory. The second track is inductive and illustrates the theory by introducing four case studies. Domestic realism holds that the behavior of states, its institutions and its citizens responsible for security, under perceived high threats is marked by aberrations that starkly depart from their espoused norms, laws, and values. The prime concern for security and self-preservation trumps all other legal constraints and ethical considerations. In spite of its tragic and unsettling nature, it behooves us to accept the domestic realism notion that aberrations in behavior are inevitable in the face of looming threats. Only through increased awareness can we inoculate and educate leaders at different levels to account for the manifestations of domestic realism as they formulate and implement policies, and to prompt them to be proactive and to incorporate mechanisms for oversight and accountability in order to counter or at least mitigate potential excesses.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
National Security Affairs
Organization
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
x, 111 p. :
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined
in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. As such, it is in the
public domain, and under the provisions of Title 17, United States
Code, Section 105, is not copyrighted in the U.S.