Robert Jervis

Robert Jervis was a prominent political scientist known for his work on international relations, especially how states perceive threats and make decisions. He studied how misunderstandings, misperceptions, and psychological biases influence global politics, often leading to conflicts or stability. His work emphasizes that perceptions matter as much as reality, and that decision-makers' beliefs can shape international outcomes, sometimes creating feedback loops. Jervis also contributed to theories of security, deterrence, and the importance of considering human psychology in understanding international events. His insights help explain the complexities of global politics beyond just military or economic factors.