Cognitive Warfare and Cybersecurity: Strategic Implications for Global Security

Abstract

This conceptual paper explores the emerging domain of cognitive warfare, focusing on its strategic dimensions and the approaches of some state actors. Cognitive warfare transcends traditional psychological and information warfare by targeting the perceptions, emotions, and cognitive functions of adversaries, ultimately disrupting decision-making processes. Through a detailed analysis of Chinese and Russian tactics, this study explores how cognitive warfare is used to destabilize democratic institutions, manipulate public opinion, and create social fragmentation. The paper further investigates how these strategies challenge established concepts of warfare and security. It concludes by offering insights into the broader implications for national and global security, presenting defense frameworks and strategies to mitigate the growing threat of cognitive warfare.