Information: An Independent Element of National Power

Abstract

This paper posits that information is the only independent element of power. As such the traditional elements of power, diplomatic, economic and military, are derived from the informational element of power. To support this thesis, the paper reviews current views of information, message, means, and matter. With this understanding, it considers the evolution and purpose of the national security apparatus. This paper then turns to a review of the elements of power. It concludes by restating the thesis "information is the only independent element of power" and offers national policy makers recommendations to address the misapplication of information.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 13, 1998
Accession Number
ADA346385

Entities

People

  • Walter I. Sasser

Organizations

  • United States Army War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Materials and Manufacturing Processes

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Commerce
  • Congress
  • Department Of Defense
  • Department Of State
  • Governments
  • Information Systems
  • Information Warfare
  • Interagency Coordination
  • International Organizations
  • Military Operations
  • Military Personnel
  • National Politics
  • National Security
  • United States
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Business Analytics
  • Strategic Security Studies