Governing the Military [Hardcover]

A military is the most significant tool of a nations foreign policy, and (hopefully) the tool of last resort. Yet the control a civilian leader has over the military is, in many respects, an encumbered and fractured control. The militarys organizational culture, role in society, size, and considerable autonomy are potential obstacles to true civilian control over the military even in peacetime. A brief but historically informed text intended for students of the presidency or national security, Governing the Militaryaddresses the gamut of challenges a new U.S. President faces as commander-in-chief.

Introduction

1 The Militarys Role: Society and Congress

2 The Peacetime Military

3 Counterterrorism and Drone Warfare

4 The Crucible of Crisis

5 The Decision for War

6 Strategic Change in Wartime

7 The Task of Postwar Reconstruction

Conclusion

Praise for Governing the Military

Crisply written, interesting, and enlightening, even for those who consider themselves well-versed in these matters. Stigler digs into the most important military topics and offers sage advice to future presidents and interested laymen alike. A wonderful little book.

Christopher J. Fettweis, Tulane University

 

 

Andrew L. Stigleris Associate Professor of National Security Affairs at the United States Naval War College.