Novel Approaches and Tools of Cognitive Warfare in the Cultural and Social Domains

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Professor and Faculty Member, Supreme National Defense University, Tehran, Iran

2 Assistant Professor and Faculty Member, Supreme National Defense University, Tehran, Iran

3 PhD Graduate in Political Sociology, Researcher

4 PhD Candidate in Strategic Defense Sciences (Military Thought), Supreme National Defense University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Cognitive warfare, recognized as one of the key dimensions of fifth-generation warfare, focuses on human minds and perceptions and influences the opponent’s thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors through soft and covert methods. This form of warfare is regarded as one of the most effective and tangible manifestations of soft warfare. The rapid development of convergent sciences and technologies, along with extensive investments by military research organizations in the field of cognitive sciences, indicates that the human brain and mind have become the primary battlefield of the new century. In this context, media and audience cognition play a fundamental role in the infiltration and domination of public thought by adversaries. The aim of this study is to identify and analyze novel approaches and tools of cognitive warfare in the cultural and social domains. The research adopts a qualitative approach and employs a descriptive–analytical method. Data were collected through documentary and library-based studies as well as expert panel sessions. The statistical population of the study consists of 20 experts in the relevant field. Using qualitative data analysis software (MaxQDA), latent content analysis was conducted, through which open, axial, and selective codes were extracted, analyzed, and interpreted. Subsequently, expert panel sessions were held to validate the findings. The results indicate that novel approaches to cognitive warfare in the cultural and social domains encompass 32 concepts organized into 8 categories, while novel tools comprise 10 concepts classified into 4 categories. These findings can serve as a foundational framework for operational planning and future research aimed at countering cognitive warfare in cultural and social arenas.

Keywords

Strategic Defense Studies
Volume 23, Issue 102
February 2026
Pages 257-294

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