President Trump’s foreign policy approach has been characterized by a mix of instinct and unconventional methods, sparking debates about its effectiveness in navigating international relations.
President Donald Trump‘s approach to foreign policy has been met with a mix of confusion and criticism. Some argue that he is winging it, making decisions based on instinct rather than careful consideration and planning. Others contend that his unconventional methods are necessary for navigating the complexities of international relations.
During his presidency, Donald Trump's foreign policy was characterized by a shift towards unilateralism and America First.
Key aspects include withdrawal from international agreements such as the Paris Climate Accord and the Iran Nuclear Deal, increased military spending, and a more assertive approach to trade negotiations.
Trump also implemented travel bans targeting predominantly Muslim countries and took a hardline stance on North Korea.
His foreign policy was marked by controversy and criticism from allies and opponents alike.
The Art of the Deal: A Foreign Policy Framework?
While Trump‘s presidency has been marked by controversy, his approach to foreign policy shares some similarities with his business dealings. The ‘art of the deal‘ – a concept he popularized in his book of the same name – emphasizes negotiation, compromise, and a willingness to take risks. This mindset can be seen in his handling of North Korea, where he has engaged in direct talks with Kim Jong-un and pursued a policy of economic sanctions relief.
Donald Trump's business approach emphasizes deal-making, negotiation, and strategic risk-taking. He has stated that his goal is to create a successful business by identifying opportunities and capitalizing on them. This philosophy is reflected in his real estate development projects, which often involve complex negotiations with investors, lenders, and regulatory agencies. Trump's business model also prioritizes branding and marketing, leveraging his personal brand to increase the value of his properties and businesses.
A Case for Instinctive Decision-Making

There is evidence to suggest that instinctive decision-making can be an effective approach in foreign policy. Historical figures such as Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela have demonstrated the value of trusting one’s instincts, even when faced with uncertain or complex situations. By tapping into their intuition, they were able to make swift and decisive decisions that often paid off.
Instinctive decision-making refers to the process of making choices based on intuition, rather than rational analysis.
Research suggests that our brains are wired to recognize patterns and make quick decisions, often without conscious awareness.
Studies have shown that instinctive decisions can be influenced by factors such as emotional state, past experiences, and cultural background.
While instinctive decision-making can be beneficial in certain situations, it can also lead to biases and errors.
Understanding the role of intuition in decision-making can help individuals make more informed choices.
The Limits of Instinctive Decision-Making
However, relying too heavily on instinct can also be a recipe for disaster. In the absence of careful planning and analysis, policymakers may overlook critical factors or fail to anticipate the consequences of their actions. This was evident during Trump‘s initial response to the COVID-19 pandemic, where his decision to downplay the severity of the outbreak has been widely criticized.
A Balanced Approach
Ultimately, a balanced approach that combines instinctive decision-making with careful planning and analysis is likely the most effective way forward. By embracing both the benefits and limitations of intuition, policymakers can make more informed decisions that take into account multiple perspectives and potential outcomes.