Social/Cultural Dynamics in the Philippine Counter-Insurgency. Considerations for Future Operations.
Abstract
Cultural dynamics are key to success in counter insurgency (CI) operations. Many lessons from previous CI operations provide valuable insight into future operations. However, no two CI operations are the same. The difference is largely cultural. Because the people are the basic element of the Clausewitizian Trinity, cultural considerations are the underlying determinant of success. Cultural dynamics provide keys to behavior. They impart insight about beliefs, what is important, what has value, what people will fight and die for, what conditions they are willing to cope with to gain their objective, etc. The Philippine Insurrection provides an excellent example of the successful use of cultural dynamics to defeat an Insurgency. Operational art focuses on the military aspects of war: however, one must interpret its scope to include the cultural aspect in each of the elements. Without this dimension, operational art is left without its key. The people. In sum, a study of cultural dynamics reveals some of the most important aspects of how and why people will fight- information operational commanders must consider when planning operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 07, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA325071
Entities
People
- Sandra E. Finan
Organizations
- Naval War College