Effects of Foreign Perceptions of U.S. Casualty Aversion on U.S. International Relations
Abstract
Perceptions directly complement or hinder diplomatic success. Understanding other nations perceptions of the US elucidates their probable action. Therefore, the fundamental research question posed in this thesis remains a pertinent one for officers, analysts, and policymakers in the future: How does the international perception that America is unwilling to risk casualties affect US foreign relations? The international perception that America is casualty averse reemerged after the hasty withdrawal of US forces from Somalia. Analysis of the US interventions in Somalia, Bosnia, and Kosovo identified five basic trends of international concern regarding the perception of US casualty aversion. These trends are as follows: (1) Aversion to casualties challenges US international leadership and credibility; (2) The US's presumed sense of invulnerability may result in preemptive attacks by the US; (3) A presumed strategy of zero casualties may directly shape US foreign relations; (4) Potential enemies can see US casualty aversion as an exploitable weakness; and (5) Past acts of apparent US casualty aversion continue to influence America's war on terrorism. US leaders must develop a strategy to reverse this international perception in order to maintain its credibility and legitimacy to act in world affairs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 31, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA407007
Entities
People
- Jonathon R. Moelter
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College