To Know Thy Enemy

This study examines the role of sociological intelligence in strategy development. It proposes a methodological approach to examining the socio-cultural dynamics at work within an adversary society and makes recommendations to improve sociological intelligence collecting to enhance United States strategy. Strategy in ancient Rome and U.S. policy in Iraq are used as case studies to illustrate successful and unsuccessful techniques. By providing a scholarly and analytical framework for approaching the complex questions relating to sociological and cultural intelligence, this work gives policy makers, strategists, and intelligence personnel the insights they need to incorporate these critical facets of the enemys essential dynamics into strategic and operational plans.