Geostrategy and the doctrines function : A case study of the Swedish doctrines MSD12 and MSD16

In the field of war studies there is an ongoing debate about the understanding of the doctrine. A common understanding of the doctrine is important not only within the field of research but also because it creates a common language among its users which reduces the risk of misunderstandings. Harald Høiback, an important player in the matter, claims that a nations prolonged geostrategic situation predicts its doctrines content with regard to its function. These functions are to act as tools of command, education and change. The main aim of this essay is to make a contribution to the debate by testing Høiback´s predication. In a case study of the Swedish strategic doctrines MSD12 and MSD16, Høiback´s predication is tested using qualitative text analysis. The main finding of this essay is that a doctrine can change its function as tool of command faster than Høiback's assertion predicts