Defining Cognitive Warfare: Maximalist versus Minimalist Approaches

Given the relevance, evolution, and proliferation of cognitive warfare in the modern age, it is necessary to delve deeper into the concept to gain an empirical understanding that can inform future policies and practices. Accordingly, a systematic literature review was carried out to define the concept in relation to six key aspects, namely its demarcation from adjacent fields, the actors involved, the targets of cognitive attacks, as well as the significance of cyberspace, the lawfulness, and the role of intent. Additionally, these aspects were analysed through the lenses of the two main schools of thought currently dominating cognitive warfare–namely a minimalist and maximalist approach. Even though both perspectives add valuable aspects to the conceptualisation of cognitive warfare, the maximalist interpretation is preferable due to its ability to reflect more accurately the current scope and understanding of what cognitive warfare entails.