Overcoming Uncertainty in Cyberspace: Strategic Culture and Cognitive Schemas

Author(s): Miguel Gomez
Journal Title: Defense Studies
Publisher(s): Taylor & Francis Online
Publication Year: 2020
Publication Place: London, United Kingdom

An understanding of strategic behavior in cyberspace is often premised on the uncertainty inherent in the domain. However, the literature does not distinguish between uncertainty resulting from a shortage of information or its ambiguity. This article by Miguel Gomez argues that decision makers are confronted with more information on cyber activities than ever before. The main reasons for this are technological and procedural advancements in forensic technology and processes over the past decade. Yet, this information often remains ambiguous. In response, decision-makers turn to strategic culture as a schematic device that guides how they form, rank and select their preferences in cyber space. According to the article, this cognitive process is constrained by accuracy goals that penalize sub-optimal policy choices.

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