National Security Strategy as Art

Wordle is a capability for generating “word clouds” from text. The clouds give greater prominence to words that appear more frequently in the body of the text.

The Wordle below was created based on the newly released 2011 National Security Strategy.

: Wordle of the US Military Strategy 2011

What conclusions can you draw about our strategy from this art? Probably not many. But it is interesting to note that intelligence is just about missing from the strategy. Hmmm. If you use a magnifying glass you can find reference to the term ISR, so you could say it got a hat-tip. You can also find, in a micro-font, the word adversaries, so it is good that our enemies are given at least a little consideration in the strategy. Cyberspace is a large term. Other words that jump out are “Joint” “Capabilities” “Force” “Leadership” “Allies” “International” and those are all good concepts for a sound military strategy.

But really think of this as art. And then read the strategy for yourself. To find it check out the release below:

from: http://www.defense.gov/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=62736

Chairman’s Corner: 2011 National Military Strategy

By Navy Adm. Mike Mullen
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

WASHINGTON, Feb. 8, 2011 – Today, I released the 2011 National Military Strategy, which provides a vision for how our Joint Force will provide the military capability to protect the American People, defend our Nation and allies, and contribute to our broader peace, security and prosperity.

While we continue to refine how we counter violent extremism and deter aggression, this strategy also rightfully emphasizes that our military power is most effective when employed in concert with other elements of power. This whole-of-nation approach to foreign policy, with civilian leadership appropriately at the helm, will be essential as we address the complex security challenges before us.

This strategy also acknowledges that while tough near-term choices must be made during this era of broader economic constraints, we will continue to invest in our people and our families. Working with our government and interagency partners, and our friends and allies, they, most of all, will bring this strategy to life as we meet our 21st century responsibilities in a dynamic, yet uncertain, future.

Biographies:
Navy Adm. Mike Mullen
Related Sites:
2011 National Military Strategy
Chairman’s Corner on “DOD Live”