How the Madman Theory links Trump and Nixon - Big Issue

Theory Briefing

• The Madman Theory holds that a leader who seems irrational gains leverage, because opponents can't predict how far he'll go.
• Nixon pioneered the strategy, and a book on US grand strategy argues Trump's two non-consecutive terms follow the same playbook.
• The core gamble is that feigned recklessness forces concessions — but it risks alarming allies as much as adversaries.
• Whether the tactic delivers real strategic wins or merely creates chaos is the question the theory can't answer on its own.