Is the Powell Doctrine Dead and Gone?
Is the Powell Doctrine Dead and Gone? By Mike Jackson, Modern War Institute
When I was a cadet in the mid-to-late 1990s, the Powell Doctrine was essentially gospel at West Point. While WWI never lived up its moniker as the “War to End All Wars,” it seemed like Desert Storm might – not because it exposed the world to horrors that no rational human being would allow to happen again, but because it exposed the world to America’s unquestionable military dominance. It was an exquisite example of matching technological advancement, military innovation, and sound national policy to protect U.S. national security interests through the use of force. At the time, we believed that was how it would always be, that in the words of former President Bush the “new world order had begun.” Now, almost two decades and two wars later, I find myself torn on how to discuss the Powell Doctrine with my cadets – is it still a useful or even relevant way for junior officers to think about the U.S. Army as a global force prepared to win in an increasing complex world?
Don’t get me wrong, I still believe in the wisdom of the Powell Doctrine and think that America would be well advised to reintroduce it concepts into every policy discussion involving the potential commitment of our military forces…
