Patterns of Influence
Strategic Culture Case Studies and Conclusions
Edited by Matthew R. Slater
DOI: 10.56686/9781732003057
ABOUT THE BOOK
Patterns of Influence is a timely book because of its applicability to the emerging strategic environment. The world is realigning into a multipolar power structure. Multipolar structures are typically complex, especially when considering the overlapping spheres of influence claimed by the competing powers in the international system. Patterns of Influence enables researchers to cope with the complexity of multipolar networks by promoting a strategic culture approach that provides a better understanding of internal state decision making. This book provides important commentary regarding the overall utility of strategic culture on states with limited federal governance, newer states that are still forming political processes and institutions, and smaller states that may become lost in the wake of regional powers. This study of strategic culture is written by scholars who are experienced working within the Department of Defense, including chapters on China, Afghanistan, Brazil, and Kosovo. Not only are the case studies geographically dispersed but also include large and small states, states with fragmented and cohesive political and social systems, as well as recently installed and more established governments. The eclectic group of case studies provide a broad basis to compare outcomes based on the strategic culture approach.
ABOUT THE EDITOR
Matthew R. Slater received his MA and PhD in International Studies from Old Dominion University and researches the dynamics surrounding environmental security (e.g. water scarcity, food scarcity, conflict), strategic culture and Latin American-U.S. security relations. He is employed at the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab and supports the implementation of Marine Corps warfighting concepts. Slater also mentors Marine Corps University, Command and Staff College students throughout the thesis process.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
Matthew R. Slater, PhD
Chapters:
1. A Strategic Culture Framework for Practitioners by Blagovest Tashev, PhD
2. China’s Strategic Culture and Its Diverse Strategic Options by Christopher D. Yung, PhD
3. Does Afghanistan Have a “Strategic Culture”? by Vern Liebl
4. Brazilian Strategic Culture and the Amazon by Denise Slater
5. A New State with a Nascent Strategic Culture: International and Domestic Influences in Kosovo by George Bogden, PhD
Conclusion
Glossary and Abbreviations