Networked Mediated Influence 2.0.

摘要

Given the conversational nature of Web 2.0 platforms, should Military Information Support Operations (MISO) evolve from its traditional monologue approach of target audience engagement? I used a combination of qualitative analysis and abductive reasoning to analyze existing scholarship on the communications environment, and how contemporary networked social movements and non-state actors are leveraging Web 2.0 platforms to communicate. The critical point behind the justification for the Psychological Operations (PSYOP) community to leverage Web 2.0 platforms for communication is that information is becoming less centralized and more decentralized. This decentralization of information is causing a major shift in the control of information and due to this lack of centralized control more individuals, private organizations, and non-state actors are now in greater competition with the PSYOP community. This shift is in line with the concept of "many-to-many" communication where traditional consumers of information are now also producers of information. To better compete with these new realities the PSYOP community will need to better educate themselves on how to effectively use Web 2.0 platforms for engagement and influence. From this perspective I also analyze the use of various psychological theories and social network theories that apply directly to Web 2.0 platforms. This study has implications for how Joint, Interagency, Intergovernment, Multinational partners, policymakers, strategists, military commanders and planners think about and plan for Web 2.0 integration into all military operations for influence.