Nature of War/ Troop Leading Steps) study guide with
complete solution
Defined as the shared world views and social structures of a group of people that
influence the actions and choices of its members.
Culture
Culture is shared but varied.
Culture is fluid and dynamic.
Culture is interconnected and holistic.
Culture underlies our worldview.
Key Factors to Culture
Knowledge of cultural factors and a comprehension of their impact on the
planning and conduct of military operations reduces battlefield friction and assist
in campaign planning.
Cultural Awareness
Aspects of culture that influence the outcome of a military operation and
conversely military actions that influence the culture within an area of operations.
Operational Culture
Useful in navigating and influencing the culturally complex 21st century
operating environment in support of missions and requirements. Favorable
influence the operational environment.
Culture Learning
1. Social Customs
2. Political Affiliation/Political Favoritism Should Be Avoided
3. Have Respect for Religious Customs
Marine Corps Small Wars Manual
Five Operational Culture Dimensions
PESPB
P:
Physical Environment
Fiver Operational Culture Dimensions
PESPB
E:
Economy
Five Operational Culture Dimensions
PESPB
, S:
Social Structure
Five Operational Culture Dimensions
PESPB
P:
Political Structure
Five Operational Culture Dimensions
PESPB
B:
Belief System (Family, Traditions, Education, Religion)
A violent clash of interests between or among organized groups characterized by
the use of military force.
War
Impose our will on the enemy.
Object of War
Determined by 4 Concurrent Factors...
1. Routine economic competition.
2. Political tension.
3. Ideological tension.
4. Crisis among groups.
War and Peace
Term used to describe Mental (indecision of course of action), Physical (effective
enemy fire or obstacle too difficult to overcome), External (imposed by enemy
action, terrain, weather, or mere chance), and Self Induced difficulties in battle.
Friction
Unknowns about enemy, environment, or even friendlies.
War will never be clear and concise.
"Fog of War"
Flexibility of thought. Ability to adapt and proactively change events to our
advantage.
Fluidity
Infuses war with its intangible moral factors. War is shaped by human behavior,
subject to complexities, inconsistencies and peculiarities. War is an extreme trial
of moral and physical strength and stamina. HUMAN WILL IS THE DRIVING
FORCE OF ALL ACTION IN WAR.
The Human Dimension
Six Troop Leading Steps
B:
Begin Planning