This survey of the state-of-the-art of research in international relations suggests that principles of sound argumentation can apply to major decisions in foreign policy. An analysis and critique of policy arguments regarding the Cuban Missile Crisis, the China-Korea-Vietnam embroilment, and the reestablishment of diplomatic relations with mainland China are presented to point out the significance of value premises and the disregard for cogency and rationality in foreign policy decision making. (AEA)