Military Theory and the Conduct of War

The question of whether there is a general, universal, theory for the conduct of war has long preoccupied famous military thinkers, military people, and students of military affairs. War and its conduct have changed across history, most notably under the influence of successive
technological revolutions during modern times. So is there anything enduring that can be determined about them, taught in professional schools of instruction and applied in practice? This is the question that this groundbreaking book sets out to answer.
In the process, the book offers a fresh look at the relationship between politics and war; examines what 'victory' means; reexamines the concepts of offense and defence; elucidates the meaning and role of the 'principles of war' and of military 'doctrine'; analyses the successive military revolutions of modernity down to the advent of nuclear weapons and the ongoing cyber and robotics revolution; and explains why guerrilla and terrorism have risen in significance, and where they are heading. Finally, the book addresses the common perception that war is in our nature, and inquires, in view of the recent challenges posed by China and Russia, if war is declining. A book that will excite students of war and strategy – in academia, the military, and the public at large.

Azar Gat is Ezer Weitzman Professor of National Security at Tel Aviv University. He is the author of 10 books on war and military theory, including A History of Military Thought: From the Enlightenment to the Cold War, War in Human Civilization, and War and Strategy in the Modern World: From Blitzkrieg to Unconventional Terrorism. His books have been translated into many languages.