Abstract

DINIZ, Eugenio. Epistemology, history and strategic studies: Clausewitz vs. Keegan. Contexto int. [online]. 2010, vol.32, n.1, pp. 39-90. ISSN 0102-8529.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0102-85292010000100002.

The article takes issue with the understanding that Clausewitz would be a "philosopher of war". Clausewitz's theory of war is addressed with Lakatos epistemological criteria in mind, which leads to its confrontation with a rival theory: Keegan's theory, according to which war would be a cultural phenomenon. Different expectations are brought about by either theory in what concerns the ancient, Biblical Israel, between the XIII and the X Century BC. Clausewitzian theory's scientific status is established by this test. The text concludes by arguing that the whole field of strategic studies should be built upon Clausewitzian foundations.

Keywords : Strategic Studies; Theory of War; Clausewitz; Epistemology; Keegan.