11/03/2023
The concept of warfare has been evolving, from physical, linear, and cavalry battles in ancient times to the current state of advanced technology-driven warfare. In the past few decades, however, the nature of warfare has undergone a significant shift.
The advent of information technology has created a new form of warfare that focuses on controlling information and manipulating perceptions and beliefs, known as "cognitive warfare."
Cognitive warfare refers to the use of psychological and information-based tactics to influence and manipulate the perceptions, beliefs, and emotions of individuals, organizations, and, to a large extent, nations.
The precedents for controlling the flow of information can be seen throughout history. Sun Tzu explicitly emphasizes the importance of controlling information and manipulating it to one's advantage.
Prussian general and military theorist Carl von Clausewitz, in his book "On War," highlights how the objective of war is to disarm the enemy by all means; he advocates for the amalgamation of the diplomatic, military, and all other state domains to achieve such a goal.
Italian political thinker and strategist Niccolò Machiavelli, in his renowned work, "The Prince," writes that "Never attempt to win by force what can be won by deception."
In his "Arthashastra," which contains treaties on war and statecraft, ancient Indian political thinker and economist Kautilya comprehensively discussed ways to wage psychological and informational wars against enemies.
The ancient Indian epic Mahabharata also provides examples of how Lord Krishna waged cognitive, informational, and psychological operations to help the Pandavas defeat the Kauravas. Written by for the Geostrata.
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