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Overview
The global Internet has served primarily as an arena for peaceful commerce. Some analysts have become concerned that cyberspace could be used as a potential domain of warfare, however. Martin C. Libicki argues that the possibilities of hostile conquest are less threatening than these analysts suppose. It is in fact difficult to take control of other people's information systems, corrupt their data, and shut those systems down. Conversely, there is considerable untapped potential to influence other people's use of cyberspace, as computer systems are employed and linked in new ways over time.The author explores both the potential for and limitations to information warfare, including its use in weapons systems and in command-and-control operations as well as in the generation of "noise." He also investigates how far "friendly conquest" in cyberspace extends, such as the power to persuade users to adopt new points of view. Libicki observes that friendly conquests can in some instances make hostile conquests easier or at least prompt distrust among network partners. He discusses the role of public policy in managing the conquest and defense of cyberspace and shows how cyberspace is becoming more ubiquitous and complex.
About the Author:
Martin C. Libicki, a senior policy analyst at the RAND Corporation since 1998
Synopsis
This book shows the risks and protections cyberspace offers for national security and information warfare.
Editorials
From the Publisher
"Libicki recognizes the grand problem in discourse on the topic of cyberwarfare: the incredible breadth of topical space....Conquest in Cyberspace is an admirable work. It covers much territory and serves the important role of provoking thought and redirecting inquiry. By crossing disciplinary boundaries, Martin Libicki has enriched our understanding of the relationship between information technology and international politics."Chris Bronk, Journal of Information Technology & Politics