Credibility Flashcards
What does credibility mean?
It refers to the perceived likelihood that an actor will follow through with its threats and promises.
What does it mean to pay upfront costs?
It means to engage in costly actions in preparation to carrying out a threat. (eg; mobilizing military)
Why do states pay upfront costs?
- To make it easier to carry out a threat
- To show that the state cares about the issue
- To show credibility in threats
What is brinksmanship?
To signal resolve by issuing a threat that leaves something to chance
What does it mean to tie hands?
When an actor sets themself up to be punished if they do not carry out a threat, which makes backing down costly.
What are audience costs?
Negative repercussions that follow a leader’s decision to not follow through with a threat.
What kinds audiences do audience costs include?
Domestic audience- voters and political opponents (may punish the leader by voting them out of office)
International audience- Other states may doubt future threats
