Psychological Operations in Support of Foreign and Defense Policy
Abstract
The purpose of the paper is to discuss the role that psychological operations have played in supporting United States foreign and defense policy. A literature search reveals a general misunderstanding of terms and a reluctance to effect coordination of their use between governmental agencies. The historical review also shows that the public does not accept the use of propaganda as being the 'American way', and that a clear doctrine for using psychological operations at the national level does not exist. The paper offers, as a partial solution, that an advisor for psychological operations be placed within the National Security Council system. The advisor's presence would focus attention on psychological operations at the highest level and would provide a focal point for coordination between the many agencies that are involved with foreign policy. The paper concludes that psychological operations, consisting of a communication program combined with positive governmental actions, should be used to promote United States interest overseas.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 28, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0760869
Entities
People
- Kenneth E. Pruett
Organizations
- United States Army War College