Reevaluating the Prussian General: Carl von Clausewitz: aka “Dead Carl.”

In the 1982 movie “Conan the Barbarian.” Conan is played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, In the movie he is asked by Mongol General Subotai, “Conan, what is best in life?” and Conan (Arnold) responds with this memorable line.

“… [to] Crush your enemies, see them driven before you, and hear the lamentations of their women.”

Carl von Clausewitz, often humorously referred to as “Dead Carl” during our time at the Army Command and General Staff College, is undoubtedly a significant figure in military theory. His magnum opus, “On War,” has been mandatory reading for Army majors and field-grade officers, but some,  like me today, have questioned the validity of his ideas. While it’s true that Clausewitz was a Prussian general during a time when his nation faced defeat, it’s worth revisiting his thoughts on the nature of war. In “On War,” he famously stated that “war is an extension of policymakers’ means” and that “war begins when diplomacy fails.” Let’s take a closer look at Clausewitz’s theories and contrast them with a modern perspective on the nature of warfare.

Clausewitz’s Perspective:

Carl von Clausewitz’s “On War” laid the foundation for modern military thought. He argued that war is not an isolated phenomenon but rather an instrument of state policy. His famous dictum, “War is the continuation of politics by other means,” underscores the idea that military conflict should serve the goals of a nation’s leadership. According to Clausewitz, diplomacy should be the primary means of resolving disputes, and war should only be employed when diplomatic efforts fail.

A Modern Perspective:

While some may argue that Clausewitz’s theories are outdated, they still hold relevance in the modern world. The concept of “crushing your enemy until they beg you to stop killing their people and breaking their things (infrastructure)” may be a tempting viewpoint, but it oversimplifies the complexity of contemporary warfare. In today’s interconnected world, the consequences of such an approach can be devastating, both politically and morally.

Modern warfare involves a range of factors, from diplomacy and information warfare to asymmetric conflicts and global interconnectedness. The idea that war is merely about annihilating the enemy neglects the importance of achieving political objectives, maintaining international alliances, and upholding today’s modern ethical standards.

A Balanced Approach:

While Clausewitz’s theory emphasizes the importance of war as an extension of diplomacy, it’s crucial to recognize that modern warfare has evolved to incorporate various forms of conflict. Hybrid warfare, cyber warfare, and other unconventional methods have blurred the lines between war and peace. Clausewitz’s principles can still guide us, reminding us that the ultimate goal of war should be to secure a favorable political outcome.

In conclusion, while we might affectionately call him “Dead Carl,” it’s important to acknowledge the enduring relevance of Carl von Clausewitz’s ideas. His emphasis on the relationship between war and policy remains a foundational concept in modern US military strategy, even in the complexities of the modern world. By understanding the nuanced nature of warfare and adapting his theories to current realities, we can benefit from his insights and make informed decisions in an ever-changing global landscape. Although some warriors still prefer Conan’s methods.

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