Ordering and controlling the dimensions of strategy

Lonsdale, David J.

Abstract

Colin Gray’s dimensions of strategy, built upon the earlier work of Clausewitz and Howard, has theoretical, practical, and pedagogic value for the Strategic Studies community. This paper further develops the theory, arguing that the dimensions can be controlled or managed to improve strategic performance. The dimensions are divided into two categories: “internal” and “external” to the process of strategy. The paper describes the dynamic process by which the internal dimensions, which can be controlled, are used to exert influence over the external dimensions that are beyond the control of the strategist. It is argued that six dimensions hold the key to strategic success: politics and the five dimensions concerned with warfighting. This conclusion validates the Clausewitzian paradigm with its emphasis on policy and battle.

Citation

Lonsdale, D. J. (2016). Ordering and controlling the dimensions of strategy. Defence Studies, 16(4), 390-407. https://doi.org/10.1080/14702436.2016.1228430

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Aug 22, 2016
• Online Publication Date: Sep 16, 2016
• Publication Date: Oct 1, 2016
• Deposit Date: Aug 31, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 12, 2019
• Journal: Defence studies
• Print ISSN: 1470-2436
• Electronic ISSN: 1743-9698
• Publisher: Routledge
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 16
• Issue: 4
• Pages: 390-407
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/14702436.2016.1228430
• Keywords: Dimensions of war, Clausewitz, Politics, War, Strategy
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/447241
• Publisher URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14702436.2016.1228430
• Additional Information: This is a description of an article accepted for publication in Defence studies, 2016, v.16 part 4.