ABSTRACT
This chapter examines decisions under conditions of uncertainty. More specifically, it explores the risks and uncertainty surrounding security and how this influences security responses. Particular attention is paid to the pursuit of security through the lens of realism and liberalism. The strategic choices of decision makers are investigated through the security spiral model, the security dilemma, and games. This chapter further analyzes the notions of preemption and misplaced certainty in the decision to go to war. Finally, this chapter considers the role of precaution in security studies and its impact on security decision making.
