Congressional and military leaders have directed improvement in cultural awareness training throughout the Department of Defense. However there are severe challenges, especially in an era of limited resources, transformation and combat operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Research shows that cultural decisions may not always achieve their desired effect; many bad decisions are a result of cultural ignorance. There are several ways to improve cultural awareness in the military using military personnel, civilian experts, or a combination of both. However, there are challenges. For example, cultural experts suggest that the use of civilian anthropologists might achieve the desired effect, yet anthropologists must overcome a history of mistrust and disillusionment with the military that might hinder participation. The Army, for example, has directed cultural awareness studies at several military schools and courses, to include the Army War College. However this will require significant resources. Whatever the method, perhaps the most we can accomplish is to develop a basic knowledge of foreign cultures so that planners and decision makers will understand and consider religious, tribal, or family interactions within foreign societies. Greater awareness a society's or adversary's culture might prevent or mitigate the length and cost of current and future conflicts.

"6 February 2008" -- p. [iii].

The definition of culture -- Current and historical challenges with cultural assertions -- Elements demanding increased cultural awareness -- Global scouts -- Employing professional anthropologists -- Challenges to employing professional anthropologists -- Human terrain system (HTS) -- Evaluation of current and future DoD strategies -- Conclusion.