Group Influence in Soviet Decision Making

Abstract

The compilation of case studies in the foregoing chapter has shown a considerable variety of decision-making processes. A first impression is that they differ from one policy area to another and that the degree of influence of individuals and groups in the decision-making process was different. But what regularities can we establish on the basis of these data? What generalizations can be formulated on the role of individuals and groups, the relationships between policy coalitions and factions in the Party top, on the applicability of the three models of agenda building and on the relationship between issue initiation and the wielding of influence? Is it really possible to establish influence relationships in Soviet decision making? These questions will be dealt with in the present chapter.