CONCEPTUAL ANALYSIS OF MILITARY STRATEGIC THINKING FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENTS
CONCEPTUAL ANALYSIS OF MILITARY STRATEGIC THINKING FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENTS

Author(s): Bogdan Daniel IOSIF
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense
Published by: Carol I National Defence University Publishing House
Keywords: strategic thinking; critical thinking; creative thinking; analytical thinking; systemic thinking;
Summary/Abstract: The purpose of this scientific endeavor is to present a structural analysis of the concept of strategic thinking in the organizational environment, suitable to military field. Using documentary analysis and observation as qualitative research tools, the theoretical investigation started with analyzing the conclusions of ten studies that investigate the components of strategic thinking and the relationships between them. Thus, it identifies five fundamental components of strategic thinking: critical thinking, creative thinking, systemic thinking, future-oriented thinking and reflective thinking. At the same time, it was found that these elements relate, work together. Critical and creative thinking often function as complementary processes. Systemic thinking is described as the ability of individuals to understand organizational complexities and environmental connections. Associated with the analytical skills specific to critical thinking, they serve as fundamental elements of strategic thinking. The study also reports interactive effects, especially between intuitive and analytical processes, and components such as foresight and systems thinking, improve the overall capacity for strategic thinking. Considering all the requirements for a future with a high degree of uncertainty, we can appreciate that the spectrum of strategic thinking should contain: critical, creative and systemic thinking models. Such a spectrum increases our capacity for understanding and, consequently, enhances the ability to make appropriate decisions in conditions of complexity and uncertainty. Areas identified for further investigation include developing standardized definitions of the components of strategic thinking, understanding how these skills are developed, and examining how military culture is being influenced by strategic thinking processes.

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