National Strategic Cultures: A Comparative Analysis

Comparative Strategic Cultures

Elements of Johnston's Strategic Culture

According to Johnston (77), elements of strategic culture include:

1. Basic ideas about the strategic environment:
   • The role of war (norm or deviation)
   • Perceptions of the enemy and associated threats (zero-sum or variable-sum game)
   • The effectiveness of using force (ability to control outcomes, conditions for useful application)
2. Views on effective strategic responses to threats

American Strategic Culture: Roots and Influence

Religion played a crucial role in the formation of American consciousness. America was founded by the Puritans, who arrived in new lands with their system of values and ideals. They were characterized by an emphasis on individual protection, and the ideology of individualism, as noted, is also a factor in the formation of strategic culture. They especially appreciated direct religious engagement. This is the source of the "messianic" spirit of American foreign policy. This individualistic worldview, prevalent in American society, also forms the basis for rejecting the specific characteristics and traditions of other nations. It is founded on two axioms: a highly optimistic assessment of its own potential and a firm belief in its realization. In other words, the hopes for the improvement of socio-political institutions, both in the United States and in other countries, play a significant role in US foreign policy (Lantis, 46).

Russian Strategic Culture: The Cult of Power

Russian strategic culture is historically based on a very powerful cult of power. The stronger party prevails. This stems from the traditional security dilemma. When different forces exist, they must somehow find a balance. If one raises military spending, an opponent also raises theirs. Conversely, if one does not raise spending, the opponent might not either, which is the ideal situation – but this requires trust. However, trust in international relations, particularly between Russia and its neighbors, has historically been absent. Consequently, Russia has often chosen a path of neutralizing opponents and maximizing its armed forces.

Chinese Strategic Culture: Prudence and Pragmatism

China pays close attention to national security and state development, drawing lessons from past experiences. A primary aspect of China's strategic culture is the preservation of its territorial integrity. When the People's Republic of China was established in 1949, it incorporated territories that had not previously been part of China. To this day, these regions remain unstable due to local populations' dissatisfaction with China's policies. Modern PRC policy can be characterized as prudent. Elements of this policy include an orientation towards economic growth without strong ideological support, and maintaining friendly relations with all countries, especially leading powers. China generally seeks to avoid the use of force, even as the modernization of its armed forces is constantly underway. China also seeks to engage in regional and global interstate relations to gain benefits.