ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the utility of a model of political judgments. The model used is based upon both political analyses and cognitive psychology. A general world view was discussed and several patterns of behavior were expected to emerge as a result of the images used to evaluate a particular state, Mexico. As the study of negotiations between the United States and Mexico demonstrates, it is possible to develop and test propositions concerning political behavior based upon cognitive psychology. Some policy makers were interested in and pointed out groups of policy advocates and conflicts between these groups regarding Mexico's leverage and probable behavior. One clear policy implication, therefore, is to make policy makers more aware of their own and the other policy makers' assumptions about another country. A simple improvement in the flow of information may ultimately lead to questions within policy making groups about each others' assumptions.
