A SEMIOTIC PERIPHERY THEORY OF INFLUENCE: FOUNDATION AND PRACTICE
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Authors
Bloom, Avron J.
Subjects
information theory
psychological operations
human cognition
semiotics
cultural semiotics
persuasion
propaganda
political warfare
social exchange theory
cultural norms
semiotic theory of culture
psychological operations
human cognition
semiotics
cultural semiotics
persuasion
propaganda
political warfare
social exchange theory
cultural norms
semiotic theory of culture
Advisors
Houck, Shannon C.
Date of Issue
2021-06
Date
June 2021
Publisher
Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This study examines the social influence environment to identify opportunities for strategic
psychological operations. To facilitate effective influence efforts, psychological operations must overcome
the effects of semantic noise: distortions in the meaning of a message that occur due to asymmetries in
societal norms and understanding that can lead to unanticipated effects. Traditional methods of reducing
semantic noise involve target audience research, analysis, and product testing, but these efforts alone cannot
ensure inter-societal shared meaning. Through systems analysis of the social influence environment,
however, this research proposes an additional route to exerting control over creating shared meaning during
the influence process: a Semiotic Periphery Theory of Influence. Drawing on information and cultural
semiotic theories, the author proposes a concept for propagating concepts and sentiments in target audiences
that can be drawn on during psychological operations to enhance their probability of success, termed
Information Operations Deep Fires. Existing doctrinal support for the concept is discussed. Finally, the
proposed concepts are applied to national deterrence strategy, where the role of information in the
Deterrence Operations Joint Operating Concept Version 2.0 (published in 2006) is critiqued and a solution
to utilizing information to provide deterrent effects is suggested, called Information Support to Deterrence
and Coercive Diplomacy.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Defense Analysis (DA)
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Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
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.