IS OFFENSE-DEFENSE THEORY STILL RELEVANT IN CYBERSPACE?
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Authors
Leatherman, Aaron E.
Subjects
cyber
cyberspace
strategic cyber domain
offense-defense theory
cyber persistence theory
cyber offense
cyber defense
cyber warfare
cognitive warfare
cyberattack
cyberspace
strategic cyber domain
offense-defense theory
cyber persistence theory
cyber offense
cyber defense
cyber warfare
cognitive warfare
cyberattack
Advisors
Shives, Timothy R.
Huntley, Wade L.
Date of Issue
2024-12
Date
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Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
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Abstract
Offense-defense theory has been a staple for understanding international politics and strategy for decades. However, its application to cyberspace is challenging due to the fundamental differences between cyberspace and physical domains. Modern cognitive warfare, a newly emerging concept, adds further complexity. The problem this thesis seeks to address is the lack of clarity about whether offense-defense theory remains relevant for developing strategy and policy in cyberspace, or if cyber persistence theory should replace it entirely. The purpose of this work is to enhance the tools available to decision-makers and policymakers for crafting effective strategies and policies in cyberspace. Qualitative theory comparison was conducted to evaluate the logical coherence and explanatory power of offense-defense theory and cyber persistence theory. This thesis contends that while cyber persistence theory is an excellent framework for developing strategy and policy in cyberspace for competition below armed conflict, offense-defense theory proves more effective above the threshold of armed conflict. Consequently, this effort advocates for using both theories in parallel to inform strategy and policy in cyberspace. Furthermore, this thesis recommends codifying a fourth layer of cyberspace, the cognitive layer, to account for humanity's growing reliance on cyberspace and its increasing influence on human cognition, norms, behaviors, social development, and worldviews.
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Thesis
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Distribution Statement
Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.
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This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.