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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.
Notes
1. The classic analysis of this issue is Allison (Citation1971). The consequences of organizational difficulties are explained in another classic work Wohlstetter (Citation1962).
2. It should be noted that ethical norms beyond the strategic community also come into play – international law and norms. That being said, the strongest ethical influence is likely to come from within the community itself.
4. The War Convention is defined by Michael Walzer as “the set of articulated norms, customs, professional codes, legal precepts, religious and philosophical principles, and reciprocal arrangements that shape our judgements of military conduct”. Walzer, p. 44.
5. For a superior analysis of friction see Watts (Citation1996).
6. OODA stands for Observe, Orientate, Decide, Act, and is the theory of Colonel John Boyd.