Clausewitz's Theory: On War and Its Application Today

New, Larry D., Air & Space Power Journal

CARL VON CLAUSEWITZ, the renowned theorist of war, stated that "a certain grasp of military affairs is vital for those in charge of general policy."1 Recognizing the reality of government leaders not being military experts, he went on to say, "The only sound expedient is to make the commander-in-chief a member of the cabinet."2 Many governments, including that of the United States, are so organized that the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is by law the top military advisor to the president. Our record of military success in this century indicates Clausewitz was right. The stronger the relationship between the nation's senior military commanders and the government, the more effective …

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Publication information: Article title: Clausewitz's Theory: On War and Its Application Today. Contributors: New, Larry D. - Author. Journal title: Air & Space Power Journal. Volume: 10. Issue: 3 Publication date: Fall 1996. Page number: 78+. © 2003 U.S. Air Force. Provided by ProQuest LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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