Emotional State Theory Friendship and Fear in Israeli Foreign Policy [Hardcover]

Schillings theory of Israels emotional state is credible. It is backed by psychological and political evidence, and his research and explanations are very thorough. Schillings writing is exemplary. The book is easy to read, and his framework is easy to follow. . . .In this book, Schilling helps to foster an understanding of Israel which is especially helpful today as Israel figures so prominently in world affairs.Schillings research does contain insights that provide food for thought on some of the undercurrents affecting Israels foreign policy. In summary, Schillings book provides an interesting analysis of a number of themes that have left their mark on Israeli foreign policy. . . .The books main contribution&is in providing analysis on these themes from a therapeutic, and therefore constructiveif not to say constructivistpoint of view. One need not be inclined to see this framework as a full-fledged theory in order to accept the value of Schillings insights. Insofar as critical introspection is valuable for any state wishing to advance, refine, and calibrate its foreign policy to align optimally with its national interests, the points raised by Schillings exercise in emotional therapy are useful and thought provoking.The analysis of emotions is a most powerful tool to understand the foreign policy of states. In this book, Christopher L. Schilling presents an original study of Israeli foreign policy with tremendous implication to the study of international relations. Emotional State Theory is highly readable, informative, and thought-provoking. Schilling's work will contribute in significant ways to our understanding of the emotional being of states such as Israel. The argument the book presents is based on the fascinating analysis of two predominant emotionsfear and anxiety.This book brings Theodor Herzl's The Jewish State into dialogue with Sigmund Freud's The Interpretation of Dreams in order to shed light on and offer an explanation for IsraellÓf