Joint Force Quarterly
Abstract
This article examines the vital role of persuasive narratives in modern military operations, highlighting their power to shape perceptions, influence behavior, and achieve strategic objectives across the competition continuum. Narratives are described as unifying stories that provide context, coherence, and clarity to military actions, ensuring alignment between words and deeds while promoting credibility and unity of effort.
The article also explores the key elements of effective narratives—setting, characters, plot, and moral—and identifies factors that enhance their persuasiveness. These include emotional appeal, simplicity, consistency with audience values, relatable characters, trust in the narrator, and resonance with cultural and historical contexts.
Military planners can develop cohesive, impactful narratives that align tactical actions with strategic objectives, enabling success in today’s complex and dynamic information environments.
Recommended Citation
Brent A. Lawniczak, "Being Believed: Persuasion and the Narrative in Military Operations," Joint Force Quarterly 116 (1st Quarter 2025), 44-50, https://digitalcommons.ndu.edu/joint-force-quarterly/vol116/iss4/7.
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