Файл:Finding the limit- the strategic potential of the network-based actor (IA findinglimitstra1094551681).pdf

Non-state, network-based threats are elusive and effective. There is an ongoing discussion about how the U.S. government can best counter these threats. What is lacking in this discussion is a clear understanding and general agreement concerning what these threats are capable of. The potential of these networks should be the primary driver of these discussions. Currently there is a split among researchers concerning the potential of network-based actors. The source of this division is a debate about whether and to what extent decentralized network-based actors can conduct strategic planning. This thesis contributes to the debate through qualitative analysis of two non-state, network-based actors, to show the capacity to plan strategically, evidenced by their ability to acquire and employ agents of influence.

Subjects: agents of influence; Soviet KGB; the Trust; Pierre-Charles Pathé; Al-Kifah Refugee Center; Al-Qaeda; Holy Land Foundation for Relief and Development