Cultural Analysis: The Need for Improved Methodologies and Doctrine
Abstract
Joint and Operational staffs and commanders will face both conventional and asymmetrical opponents from various cultures in a variety of military endeavors. These operations and evolving CINC Theater Engagement Plans will also require close cooperation with varying coalitions that will include non-western cultural groups. Political and economic considerations will dominate this environment and limit the utility of overt military force. Global media magnifies these factors provoking culturally based reactions in various populations and political centers of gravity. Current methods of cultural assessment may be inadequate to such challenges. Current Joint Doctrine does not offer a concise definition or clear methodology for the consistent identification and analysis of cultural factors. Current CINCs and major operational units rely on a combination of intelligence section research and the use of various regional experts to identify and assess militarily significant aspects of culture. There is a need for a consistent and effective analysis approach to improve operational planning in limited objective and MOOTW operations involving non-Western cultures. Development of a Joint definition of culture and a standard template or cultural profile that depicts human cultural systems will provide a basis for the formulation of Joint Doctrine. Integration of these tools and development of a methodology for analysis will enhance the JIPB process. This enhancement combined with integration into Service and Joint education will provide the future CINC or JTF commander with improved cultural analysis capability.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 13, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA409129
Entities
People
- James R. Trahan
Organizations
- Naval War College