Realizing the Peace Dividend: A Systems Perspective on Defense Conversion
Abstract
Many believe the notion of large-scale defense conversion holds the promise of the peace dividend. The true peace dividend is not the amount of money saved on defense, but rather how we utilize the real resources released from defense. In today's environment, we must view defense conversion from a systems perspective and the interaction of three sectors: the civil (non- defense) sector, the defense support sector (Defense Industrial Base), and the military sector (DoD and the Services). The objectives of defense conversion must be to sustain needed defense capability, including a viable defense industrial base, and to use excess resources from defense to promote long-term economic growth. Clearly, defense conversion is not the panacea for curing the nation's economic ills; however, if done right, it can contribute to our long- term economic well-being. The only way to do this is through a systems perspective. This study provides the conceptual foundation for applying systems concepts to defense conversion. It demonstrates how an integrated systems perspective can be used in developing and analyzing policy options to improve system performance; that is, achieving the defense conversion goals. This framework can serve as a useful conceptual guide for the public policy community which must develop and implement defense conversion policy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA276616
Entities
People
- Robert M. Wallett
Organizations
- Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy