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Social SciencesGovernment and Political Science

Political Control Over the Use of Force: A Clausewitzian Perspective

Authors: Suzanne C. Nielsen; ARMY WAR COLL STRATEGIC STUDIES INST CARLISLE BARRACKS PA
Abstract:
The author addresses the issues regarding the ideal relationship between the commander and the statesman in time of war and the balance between political control and military operational expertise by examining what Carl von Clausewitz has to say about civil-military relations and the use of force. She looks in depth at Clausewitz's arguments, reviews his theoretical approach, and discusses four key implications of the basic idea that political purposes govern war. In conclusion, the author suggests that Clausewitz has issued both statesmen and commanders a challenge. Commanders must appreciate the necessity of subordinating military means to political ends, and statesmen must think as strategists as they make decisions about the relationship between ends and means and the achievement of their goals.

Limitations: APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE
Pages: 53
Report Date: MAY 2001
Report Number: A376983
Keywords relating to this report:
*BALANCE OF POWER
*MILITARY COMMANDERS
*UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
CONTROL
MILITARY OPERATIONS
POLITICAL SCIENCE
WARTIME
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