Presidential Leadership and Decisionmaking: National Security Strategy inTransition, 1992-93

摘要

The purpose of this study is to examine the role of strategic leadership and presidential decisionmaking in the strategy formulation process. Because strategy formulation is a political process, it can only be studied in the context. Effective presidential leadership and decisionmaking in national security strategy are essential for producing policies that secure the future for America. 1992 was a presidential electron year that fell in a period of historic transition for the United States. The cold War ended and 1990 joined 1815, 1898, and 1945 as a symbolic year of change in the international system and the American role in it. We elected William Jefferson Clinton to the presidency from among the children of those who have held power since President Kennedy was elected in 1961. President Clinton is from a different culture. His politics, strategic arms and especially his strategic concepts for achieving those aims differ greatly from Cold War politics -- regardless of political party. This study examines the personality and competencies of strategic leaders in general and highlights such characteristics in President Clinton and his recent predecessors. The study then examines presidential decisionmaking including the effect of the president's strategic leader competence, his advisors, and aspects of the decision making process itself. Comparisons to the organizations and processes since the Johnson administration illustrate the differences in presidential style. Finally, the study examines emerging national strategy in the Clinton administration.