Journal Article - Quarterly Journal: International Security
The Subversive Trilemma: Why Cyber Operations Fall Short of Expectations
Summary
Although cyber conflict has existed for thirty years, the strategic utility of cyber operations remains unclear. A growing body of research explains why cyber operations tend to fall short of their promise in both warfare and low-intensity competition. The mismatch between promise and practice is the consequence of the subversive trilemma theory, which finds that cyber operations’ speed, intensity, and control are negatively correlated. A case study of the Russo-Ukrainian conflict reveals that the trilemma’s constraining effects result in cyber operations delivering limited utility.
For more information on this publication:
Belfer Communications Office
For Academic Citation:
Lennart Maschmeyer, "The Subversive Trilemma: Why Cyber Operations Fall Short of Expectations," International Security, Vol. 46, No. 2 (Fall 2021), pp. 51–90, doi.org/10.1162/isec_a_00418.
- Recommended
- In the Spotlight
- Most Viewed
Recommended
Analysis & Opinions
- The Washington Post
America’s Pandemic Response Doesn’t Bode Well for a Potential Cyberattack
Book
- Random House/Crown
The Perfect Weapon
Analysis & Opinions
- Strategist
How Will New Cybersecurity Norms Develop?
In the Spotlight
Most Viewed
Paper
- Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School
Ideal Qualities of a Successful Diplomat
Journal Article
- Research Policy
The Relationship Between Science and Technology
Analysis & Opinions
- Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation
50 Years Later, The Legacy of The Paris Peace Accords Isn't One of Peace
Summary
Although cyber conflict has existed for thirty years, the strategic utility of cyber operations remains unclear. A growing body of research explains why cyber operations tend to fall short of their promise in both warfare and low-intensity competition. The mismatch between promise and practice is the consequence of the subversive trilemma theory, which finds that cyber operations’ speed, intensity, and control are negatively correlated. A case study of the Russo-Ukrainian conflict reveals that the trilemma’s constraining effects result in cyber operations delivering limited utility.
Lennart Maschmeyer, "The Subversive Trilemma: Why Cyber Operations Fall Short of Expectations," International Security, Vol. 46, No. 2 (Fall 2021), pp. 51–90, doi.org/10.1162/isec_a_00418.
- Recommended
- In the Spotlight
- Most Viewed
Recommended
Analysis & Opinions - The Washington Post
America’s Pandemic Response Doesn’t Bode Well for a Potential Cyberattack
Book - Random House/Crown
The Perfect Weapon
Analysis & Opinions - Strategist
How Will New Cybersecurity Norms Develop?
In the Spotlight
Most Viewed
Paper - Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School
Ideal Qualities of a Successful Diplomat
Journal Article - Research Policy
The Relationship Between Science and Technology
Analysis & Opinions - Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation
50 Years Later, The Legacy of The Paris Peace Accords Isn't One of Peace