Sun Tzu: Ancient Theories for a Strategy Against Islamic Extremism
Abstract
Sun Tzu's theories on war are timeless to both military and civilian strategists. His theories are as relevant today as they were in 500 B.C., especially in the context of the United States' war on Islamic extremism. The conflict the nation now finds itself engaged in requires the innovative development of strategies that go beyond past conventional thought. The United States must force itself to think of ways to defeat a new kind of enemy, one that is generally unseen, is driven ideologically, does not seek a set battle, and is like no other faced before. This project will highlight Sun Tzu's emphasis on the indirect approach to coerce or defeat one's enemy. Then by using Sun Tzu's indirect approach as the analytical construct, the study assesses the current threat, Islamic extremism, by exploring its foundation, methods, goals, and the conditions that allow the threat to flourish. Islamic extremism can best be characterized by a complex set of concentric rings. Al-Qaeda is at its center, with jihadist groups, sympathizers, and the Muslim faithful constituting the outer elements. Finally, the project assesses the current "National Strategy for Combating Terrorism" in light of Sun Tzu's indirect approach, offering policy considerations as possible improvements.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 15, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA449442
Entities
People
- Sean P. Rice
Organizations
- United States Army War College