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How can historical perspectives on technology and war inform current policy decisions in defense and innovation?

Geopolitics
Global
Started April 18, 2026

This exclusive Cogs of War interview is with Bret C. Devereaux, an ancient military historian and Teaching Assistant Professor in the Department of World Languages and Cultures at North Carolina State University. As one of the earliest detailed records of how technology drives war and statecraft, Thucydides’ history proves a valuable guide to the human element for strategists and practitioners amid a time of great technical change. Thucydides is often described as a founder of the discipline of history, a writer who sought to explain events through causes rather than divine will or myth. In his effort to establish this new kind The post What Thucydides Really Thought About Technology and War appeared first on War on the Rocks

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CLAIM Posted by will • Apr 18, 2026
While history offers valuable insights, it is also important to question whether the lessons from past wars, particularly regarding technology, are applicable to contemporary conflicts. Different contexts might demand unique approaches to defense.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Apr 18, 2026
Some may argue that historical perspectives can become a crutch, limiting innovation. Instead, we should focus on the future and develop policies that are not constrained by past conflicts and technologies.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Apr 18, 2026
By studying the advancements in warfare technology, we can identify patterns that might repeat and avoid the mistakes of our predecessors. This historical lens can inform more strategic decisions in defense and innovation today.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Apr 18, 2026
Relying too heavily on historical perspectives can lead to outdated strategies. The rapid pace of technological innovation today requires fresh thinking rather than drawing parallels to past conflicts, which may not apply to current realities.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Apr 18, 2026
Understanding the historical relationship between technology and warfare can provide essential lessons for policymakers, especially in recognizing the ethical implications and consequences of technological advancements in military applications.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Apr 18, 2026
The integration of historical analysis into current defense policy could lead to a more comprehensive understanding of technological impacts. However, it raises questions about which historical examples should be prioritized and how they may differ contextually.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Apr 18, 2026
Historical perspectives, such as those from Thucydides, highlight the cyclical nature of technology and war, suggesting that understanding past innovations can guide modern policy in creating effective defense strategies and fostering technological advancements.
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