Includes bibliographical references and index.

Contents: The psychology of rationality: cognitive style in international relations -- The three "R" of international relations: realism, romanticism, and rationality -- Little bismarcks: a laboratory experiment on variation in rational thinking and rational behavior (with Joshua Kertzer) -- The "Prince'' among men: bismarck's realpolitik in Prussian politics -- Cold blood and iron: bismarck, the struggle with Austria, and German unification -- Blind faith: richelieu, the devoted, and France in counter-reformation Europe -- "Blood, toil, tears, and sweat" : churchhill, romanticism, and the rational appeasement debate -- "In defeat, defiance": churchhill in words (1935-1939) and in deeds (1940) (with Therese Anders) -- "Beginning the world all over again":resolving the paradox of Ronald Regan -- Winning one as the gipper? Reagan's administration and American engagement with the Soviet Union.