Why Nations Put to Sea

This book examines the impact that technological innovation has on the character and application of national power. Specifically, the book. addresses the impact of a changing rate of technological innovation on political and military capability. To this end "Sea Power" is used as a platform for a strategic examination of the impact that technological innovation plays on all existing political and military systems. Technological innovation is increasing exponentially; this condition results in a new set of political-military implications for nations. Research conclusions suggest that organizational responses to technological innovation are decisive in promoting and sustaining national power. These "organizations" may be military, governmental, industrial, or a combination of the three. Indeed, within a given nation, various organizations may be working at across-purposes with regard to the incorporation of advanced technology into the nation's armed forces. Relative economic and military strength has never been a more fragile and waning national attribute. Since history offers examples both of ready acceptance of new technology and of organizational complacency in the face of change, the ability of national leadership to foster receptive attitudes toward technology within important government organizations will be of singular importance in the coming technological struggle.