Power, Paradigms, and Perspective: Framework of Opportunity in the Revolution in Military Affairs.
Abstract
This thesis adopts the adversary's perspective to consider the revolution in military affairs, thereby breaking free of the intellectual constraints imposed by the American paradigm of warfare, doctrine and force structure. The adversary's need to circumvent our overwhelming military superiority is the starting point for a revolution in thought from which might spring a true revolution in military affairs. A new intellectual framework for war is outlined. This forms the basis for rational but unconventional conjecture regarding strategies adversaries might use. It is based on the ongoing transformation of global society and the most recently developed concepts from today's sciences. Its centerpiece is an alternative to the classic center of gravity model employed to focus strategies of war. Based on dissipative structures this model better accounts for a thinking, non-monolithic enemy, unpredictability, diverse forms of conflict, and developments that transcend what is commonly considered as the revolution in military affairs. Our adversaries will fulfill their need to circumvent American military superiority with opportunities in the pervasive Third Wave and new concepts from today's science. The resultant revolution in thinking will revolutionize warfare. There, forms of warfare that include other than traditional military power are not only possible but likely.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 02, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA299936
Entities
People
- Eric P. Reed
Organizations
- United States Naval Academy