Key Words

About This Event:

Since the end of World War II, the United States has struggled to win wars. This is especially true considering its campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq. With one of the most powerful militaries, it is safe to say the US is not losing combat missions due to a lack of resources or technology. Strategic atrophy, along with an unwillingness to adapt to the changes of warfare, are the main reason the US is not winning.

“War is knowable,” writes Sean McFate, “and half of winning is knowing what it looks like. The bad news is we have forgotten how. Western strategic thought is antiquated and incapable of safeguarding us.” While the US is struggling in this new climate of warfare, other nations, including US adversaries, have already adapted to new strategies and the new rules of war.

What can the US and other Western powers do to be strategically effective again? How has war changed and how might wars be fought in the future?

Sean McFate is professor of strategy at the National Defense University and Georgetown’s School of Foreign Service. McFate will join us to discuss his recent publication, “The New Rules of War: Victory in the Age of Durable Disorder.”

The author will sign books at the end of the program. A limited number will be available for purchase at the event.

SPEAKER: Sean McFate
Professor, National Defense University and Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service; Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council

This program is presented by the World Affairs Council of Northern California, in partnership with the Marines’ Memorial Association.