ABSTRACT
Decision-making in networks will only be successful if the interdependent multi-actor configuration is accepted as a fact. This demands more process-based strategies. This chapter is all about this strategic behaviour of actors what it is in essence and how we should (or could) evaluate it normatively. Strategic behaviour is surrounded by a shroud of secrecy. Actors who behave strategically will work vigorously for their own interest. Networks are a fertile breeding-ground for strategic behaviour. A sensible way to manage the uncertainties and dynamics in networks is to build up and manage a redundant-relationship network. It is obvious that to be able to tackle problems in situations in which actors are dependent on each other, other actors are always needed. Single-issue decision-making creates an either-or situation—parties are for or against something and have an incentive to formulate their standpoint more and more incisively because there is nothing in it for them to negotiate. Multi-issue decision-making is far more attractive.
