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Centre of Gravity

/ˈsɛn.tər əv ˈɡræ.vɪ.ti/

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Besides his famous trinities describing the nature of war, Clausewitz introduced the concept of the "centre of gravity." Initially referring to the point where the enemy's forces were concentrated, Clausewitz later revised the concept. In its later iteration, "centre of gravity" refers to the source of the enemy's power, that being its population and morale.

Pablo Mathis Pablo Mathis obtained a BSc in Security Studies from Leiden University and an MA in War Studies from King's College London. He is currently a MSc(Res) International Relations candidate at the London School of Economics and Political Science. His main areas of interest are international relations theories and small states.

Cite this brief
Mathis, P. (2023). Centre of Gravity. EPIS Insight · Peacekeeping & Conflict Prevention.
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