'Madman Theory' or 'Persistent Engagement'? The Coherence of US Cyber Strategy under Trump. Issue 3 (3rd July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Devanny, Joe
• Is Part Of: Journal of applied security research. Volume 17:Issue 3(2022)
• Page Start: 282
• Page End: 309
• Publication Date: 2022-07-03
• Subjects: Cyber strategy -- National security -- US politics -- persistent engagement; Police, Private -- Training of -- Periodicals; Police, Private -- Training of -- United States -- Periodicals; Private security services -- Periodicals; 363.289
• DOI: 10.1080/19361610.2021.1872359
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1936-1610

Abstract

Abstract: The Trump administration authorized an assertive cyber strategy of persistent engagement and defending forward. Less a radical break than an evolution, it reflected the impact of bureaucratic politics, emerging theories about cyber competition and arguments about improving the Obama-era strategy. This article employs recent research into "madman tactics" to reject claims that "Madman Theory" improves understanding of persistent engagement. The new strategy was a coherent, albeit bold, response to the operating environment. Under Trump it was undermined by political contingencies. Pursued prudently under Biden, it could yet achieve its objectives: preserving US superiority, promoting stability and security in cyberspace.