Center of Gravity Concept: Informed by the Information Environment

The information sphere is an integral part of the current environment. The center of gravity (CoG) theory currently is matched for conventional, linear, industrial age warfare in the physical domain. The CoG concept is thus not suited to work in the fast changing information environment and needs revision. Nevertheless, the CGoG concept is deeply ingrained in United States military doctrine. The CoG concept can be refined to be useful in operational design, by including strategic communication theory and the information environment. The current use and interpretation of the CoG concept come in the form of a survey that was conducted during the autumn of 2008 among students and Faculty at the Pre-Command Course and at the School of Advanced Military Studies in Ft Leavenworth. The information environment affects all domains of warfare, with information existing as the energy that holds a system together. This method presents a way to expand the CoG beyond just physical aspects. Consequently, the theoretical construct of the doctrinal CoG should be viewed as created by the relationships between the belligerents, as well as the interaction between centripetal and centrifugal forces. The CoG exists in relationship with other CoGs, and the concept should incorporate larger structures and systems to avoid reductionism. Planners also need to identify where the connections and gaps exist in the system as a whole, before they decide whether a CoG exists or is useful. In order to provide a holistic approach to the CoG concept, doctrine should describe the interaction between the moral, cognitive and physical domains. Education and updated doctrine is vital to provide a thorough understanding of the theoretical concepts as a foundation to enable the practitioner to use the center of gravity concept