The Idea of a Strategist's Education

Abstract

Abstract C. P. Snow observed, “the intellectual life of the whole of western society is increasingly split into two polar groups.” As he declared, on one side are the scientists, and on the other, “literary intellectuals.” Within strategic studies, one may compare this to the tensions between social scientist and historical approaches. His observation therefore provides insight into educating young strategists. This paper examines the evolution of the military and strategic studies discipline in an American context, contending the approach is not unique to Americans, but applies generally. Regarding such development, the author contends the role of military culture; the interaction of formal and informal reasoning; and the roles of history and the social sciences are crucial, concluding that a humanistic and scientifically informed interdisciplinary approach steeped by the thoughts of the military and strategic studies expert best prepares young strategists for service.