Strategic Culture -- How It Affects Strategic "Outputs"
Abstract
The concept of strategic culture has been defined in various ways at both the strategic and operational levels. Throughout the literature, three common elements of strategic culture have emerged: (1) strategic culture provides a value system in the context of strategic decision making; (2) this value system is held by a specific community; and (3) the "outputs" (security policy, doctrine, etc.) of this community are affected by strategic culture. The sources of a particular community's strategic culture include geography, history, the world view of the regime (religion, ideology, culture), economic factors, and the organization of government and military institutions. Analysis of U.S. strategy reveals a uniquely American strategic culture. This strategic culture has resulted in three discernible consequences for U.S. strategy: (1) U.S. strategists have fostered a strong problem-solving ethic; (2) it is the tendency for defense policy makers to seek refuge in technology; and (3) the ironic consequence of American strategic culture is an absence of strategic thinking. U.S. strategic "outputs" (National Security Strategy, Service doctrine, National Military Strategy, etc.) generally reflect the characteristics of American strategic culture as described in this study. Consequently, the study affirms that strategic culture is a valid concept.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA525913
Entities
People
- Russell A. Moore Ii
Organizations
- Marine Corps University