Balancing Tyche: Nonlinearity and Joint Operations
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that centuries of linear thought continues to shape U.S. war fighting doctrine, despite the fact that nonlinearity is more reflective of the actual nature of war. By recognizing and incorporating key aspects of nonlinear theory into a twenty-first century American approach to warfare, the U.S. military can overcome many of the theoretical limitations it currently faces in formulating Joint doctrine. The concept of nonlinearity involves the dynamic, interactive nature of warfare and the complex connectivity of the human dimension. It provides a construct for understanding the changing character of war and allowing for the recognition of friction before reaching culmination. Nearly a century ago, the Soviet Union embarked on a holistic investigation of warfare that propelled them to the forefront of innovative theory development, later manifest as doctrine, structure, education and procurement. If the U.S. military is to become truly Joint in application, then it must also subscribe to a common, sound doctrine. Nonlinearity offers a way to leverage the best of service cultures and capabilities, understand the dynamic nature of conflict and achieve both an adaptive and creative approach to decision making and war fighting.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 07, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA415739
Entities
People
- Stuart A. Whitehead
Organizations
- United States Army War College