Psychological War explores the often-underestimated role of manipulating an adversary's mind in military conflicts.
The book argues that influencing perceptions and emotions can be as crucial as physical force.
It examines the history, theory, and ethical implications of psychological warfare, revealing how tactics like propaganda and deception have been used to sway battlefield outcomes.
For example, cognitive biases, like the tendency to seek information confirming existing beliefs, can be exploited to reinforce misinformation.
The book's approach is scholarly, avoiding sensationalism while providing a comprehensive overview.
It begins by establishing a theoretical framework, drawing on psychological principles related to persuasion and cognitive biases.
It then delves into historical case studies from the 20th and 21st centuries, dissecting specific campaigns and their impact.
Finally, it addresses the ethical considerations surrounding these tactics, navigating the balance between national security and international law.