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Clausewitz’s Trinities

/ˈklɔːzəvɪts ˈtrɪnɪtiz/

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The Prussian general and military strategist Carl von Clausewitz described war as a trinity of passion, chance, and reason. Passion resembles intrinsic hatred and is often associated with the population. Reason is likely attributed to the government. Clausewitz affiliated chance with the military.

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Pablo Mathis Pablo Mathis studied Security Studies at Leiden University in the Netherlands and now pursued a Master at the Kings College London. Pablo’s main area of interest is national security, with a special focus on great-power competition and nuclear and conventional deterrence. When analyzing these issues, Pablo believes in adopting a historical perspective and building on various international relations theories.

Cite this brief
Mathis, P. (2023). Clausewitz’s Trinities. EPIS Insight · Peacekeeping & Conflict Prevention.
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