Presidents, Advisers, and Foreign Policy: The Effect of Leadership Style on Executive Arrangements

As the world grows more complex, interdependent, and filled with uncertainties, presidents face an increasing dilemma in the making of foreign policy. More parts of the government have become involved in the foreign policy-making process and increasing numbers of agencies, organizations, and people have developed some interest in what happens in the international arena. Presidents inevitably are drawn into the whirlpool of foreign affairs (Fallows, 1981, p. 147). At issue is how presidents maintain control over foreign policy while still delegating authority to other actors in the government to deal with problems and take advantage of opportunities. Moreover, how do presidents shape the foreign policy agenda when situations are being defined and problems as well as opportunities are being perceived and structured by others in the political system?