---
title: "Allison's Models Explained | Model Diplomat"
description: "Allison's models are three lenses for analyzing foreign-policy decisions. Used by scholars and policymakers, they reveal insights into state behavior."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/allison-s"
---

[New](https://modeldiplomat.com/)

#

Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Allison's models are three analytical lenses—Rational Actor, Organizational Process, and Governmental Politics—proposed by Graham T.
- Allison to explain foreign-policy decision-making.
- Who proposed Allison's three models and in which work?
- What are the three models and their core logics?
- How does Allison's work challenge realism?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

Allison's models are three analytical lenses—Rational Actor, Organizational Process, and Governmental Politics—proposed by Graham T. Allison to explain foreign-policy decision-making.

Go beyond the definition

## Research Allison's like a delegate

Model Diplomat's AI drafts position papers, speeches, and country research with real sources — built for MUN and politics students.

## Research it like a delegate

Research on modeldiplomat.com

## Ask a follow-up about Allison's

Open a cited briefing in Model Diplomat search — timelines, positions, and sources you can use in committee or exam answers.

[Start research on Allison's](https://modeldiplomat.com/search?q=Explain%20Allison%27s%20%E2%80%94%20key%20dates%2C%20actors%2C%20positions%2C%20and%20sources)

Example

In 1971, Graham Allison used the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis to show that the US naval blockade decision looked rational under Model I but appeared, under Model III, as a bargained compromise within Kennedy's ExComm.

Keep learning

## Go deeper than the definition

Lessons

[National Interest Foreign Policy Decision Making](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/lessons/exam-ir-national-interest-foreign-policy-decision-making)

Courses

[Exam Ir](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/courses/exam-ir)

[Explore all Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams lessons](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services)[Test yourself with a quiz](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/quiz/civil-services)

## Take Allison's beyond the glossary

Ask the AI research engine built for diplomacy — get briefings, position papers, and speeches with sources you can cite in committee.