The 1997 U.S. NSS: Strategy or Wish List?
Abstract
The Clinton 1997 National Security Strategy (NSS) claims to establish a blueprint for U.S. National Security for the 21st century. Although it attempts to break the Cold War strategic paradigm of containment, it falls short of providing an effective construct for executing strategy in the "new world disorder." The White House product reads more like a corporate annual report than a document with strategic vision. There are inconsistencies within the document's strategic logic that are likely to cause confusion and hamper implementation. To be effective, a strategy must follow a framework and present a logic that enables it to "hang together." This coordination and calculation of means and ends is dependent upon a strategic vision that is clear and consistent. A coherent national security strategy should contain clear definitions and prioritization of goals, interests, and objectives. It should develop a plan for employing all the tools of statecraft in accordance with those prioritized interests and objectives. Finally, an integrated NSS should be based upon well-reasoned assumptions and consideration of its ramifications on other nations' cultures and security concerns.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA442003
Entities
People
- Peter M. Vangjel
Organizations
- National War College