This study analyzes the broad effect of strategic culture on the implementation of national security strategies, in particular whether American culture and traditions constrain and shape her application of military force. The study first examines roots of American culture as found in Western civilization. The conclusion is that while cultural restraints that exist in conducting war were developed within European society, their application was not universal; the level of threat to the warring parties involved and the identification of an adversary as being culturally and racially similar both determined when restraints were exercised. Building upon this foundation, the author next explores the American ideals of democracy, views of the role of technology, and ethical beliefs that all serve to shape her cultural perception of war and conflict resolution. Having established an American cultural model, the study evaluates its influence upon the implementation of US national strategies. The conclusion is that in an era in which the US is relatively unchallenged, particularly within the last decade, culturally imposed restraints have emerged as a significant factor in shaping the direction and scope of US force application. The significance of this must be taken into account by national command authorities prior to committing US military forces to any theater.
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