Influencing Behavior: A Conceptual Framework for the Cognitive Dimension

Abstract

Current trends, including the action of several potential adversaries, suggest that operating effectively in the cognitive dimension will be necessary to achieve tactical, strategic and operational objectives. However, the current lack of an accepted holistic framework cripples U.S. efforts to operate in this dimension. After analyzing and comparing a survey of historical cases to identify themes, this paper proposes an outline for such a framework. Several advantages of such a framework are identified: first, it helps categorize operations affecting the cognitive domain in a way that highlights and elucidates the interaction between cognitive and physical dimensions. Second, conceptualizing desired end-states interns of the behavior of specified groups allows analysis in terms of those groups decision making processes. Third, this analysis facilitates incorporating and applying recent developments in behavioral psychology to military planning.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 29, 2016
Accession Number
AD1178766

Entities

People

  • Nathan A. Fleischaker

Organizations

  • Marine Corps University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Cold War
  • Diplomacy
  • Information Operations
  • Information Warfare
  • International Organizations
  • Marine Corps
  • Marine Corps Operations
  • Military Operations
  • Military Strategy
  • National Security
  • New York
  • Propaganda
  • Public Diplomacy
  • Strategic Communications
  • United States
  • Universities
  • War Colleges

Readers

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Organizational Psychology.