Analyzes contemporary armed conflict from the point of view of a British infantry officer with experience on the battlefield; considers the concepts involved and the blurring of military and political activity that has challenged the distinction between war and peace.

The language of war -- Clausewitzian war and contemporary conflict -- Globalisation and contemporary conflict -- Strategic dialogue and political choice -- Liberal powers and strategic dialogue -- Pragmatism and operational thought -- British strategy in the Borneo confrontation 1962/6 -- Strategic narrative -- Ethos, vision and confidence in strategic narrative -- Conclusion: Contemporary strategic thought.