Category: inklings

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Strategic Insights for U.S. Engagement with China: Understanding and Leveraging National Cognitive Styles–Neo-DeMarcoian Thought

In the complex and dynamic arena of international relations, the concept of national cognitive style plays a crucial role in shaping how countries perceive and respond to global challenges. Cognitive style refers to the characteristic ways in which societies, influenced by their cultural, historical, and political contexts, process information, make decisions, and approach problems. Understanding …

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Reading The Leadership, Innovation, and Strategic Tea Leaves in Recent Articles and Reports: DeMarco Banter

As I read through the following articles from RAND, two former Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs, and others, it is essential to ponder the themes, ideas, concepts, and strategies that emerge: RAND Commission on the National Defense Strategy Axios: "U.S. not ready for global war, commission warns" Foreign Affairs: "America Isn’t Ready for the Wars …

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Exploring Strategic Parallels: Shì, The Force, Coup d’œil, and Modern Geopolitics: DeMarco Banter.

While reading Michael Pillsbury's book, "The Hundred-Year Marathon," I began to ponder—if the CCP utilizes the concept of shì, what does the West or the US rely on? This reflection led me to consider Carl von Clausewitz's "On War" and the concept of coup d'œil (and The Force—for just a second). Michael Pillsbury is a …

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Embracing Innovation: The Essential Role of Destiny: DeMarco Banter

I am fortunate to have several individuals whom I can call to bounce off ideas and concepts, and of course, listen to their insights. Among these valued connections is Jeff DeGraff, an innovator with years of experience. During one of our recent conversations, as we wrapped up our call, Jeff imparted a profound statement: "There …

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Navigating the Perplexity of Aporia: A Journey of Intellectual Growth and Discovery:  Or Simply “I Don’t Know.” DeMarco Banter

Aporia, a concept deeply rooted in ancient Greek philosophy and prominently featured in the dialogues of Socrates, represents a state of intellectual impasse where individuals confront seemingly insurmountable contradictions or uncertainties within their beliefs and knowledge systems. This exploration of aporia delves into its historical origins, philosophical underpinnings, and contemporary significance, seeking to unravel its …

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Decoding Asymmetric Doctrine: Revisiting “Unrestricted Warfare,” The Golden Section, and China’s Quest for Victory: DeMarco Banter

Unrestricted Warfare, an arguably influential book by Chinese Air Force Colonels Qiao Liang and Wang Xiangsui published in 1999, has become a touchstone for understanding the Chinese Communist Party's strategic doctrine. This is probably my fourth reading of this work and I find myself continually drawn back to  Chapter 6: "Seeking Rules for Victory" in …

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Navigating AC/DC’s Razor’s Edge: Simplicity, Paradox, and the Quest for Understanding: DeMarco Banter

Working out the other day, AC/DC's ear-splitting track "Razor's Edge" blasted through my headphones. With its driving riffs and aggressive lyrics like "There's fighting on the left, and marching on the right...Here comes the razor's edge," the song conjured vivid imagery of treading a perilous, knife-edge path. As the music pounded, my mind wandered – …

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The Five Tankers of Innovation: An OV-1 for AUiX—Fueling Innovation…A Synchronized Approach to Problem Solving

A few years ago, a pivotal meeting unfolded that would chart the course for the Air University Innovation Accelerator (AUiX). It was a gathering that brought together the keen minds of Lt Col TJ Ablay, Cadet (now 2nd Lieutenant) Abigail "AP" Carter, and myself, each of us had a shared vision to redefine the landscape …

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