The Prussian military historian Carl von Clausewitz famously observed that "war is merely a continuation of politics by other means." These "other" (violent) means have been used on countless occasions throughout human history to settle conflicts over land, resources, and political rule. But what is the utility of war in the modern world? In a world with weapons of mass destruction, have the means of war delegitimized its use? In a world of expanding democracy, and cultural and economic interdependence, has the use of force become outdated?
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Hoover Institution fellow Gen. James Mattis is better known than any other modern military leader for coming up with memorable quotes, and one of the most cited ones was “The most important six inches on the battlefield is between your ears.”
September 18, 2026
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Attrition is the defining feature of today’s conflicts. The wars in Ukraine and the Middle East have become grinding contests over which side can exhaust the other’s military capacity, economic resources, and political will.
September 18, 2026
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Hoover Institution fellow, decorated military historian and bestselling author Prof. Barry Strauss was awarded the U.S. Naval War College’s 2026 Hattendorf Prize during a ceremony at the institution’s Newport, Rhode Island, campus on Sept. 9.
September 10, 2026
