PICT 2012 : Modern Warfare Research Essay Assessment

Write a research essay on ONE of the following topics

1. In the twenty-first century, the emergence of new highly sophisticated technologies has allowed manoeuvre warfare to triumph over attrition.” Do you agree with this statement? Why or Why not?
2. Are traditional concepts of maritime strategy still relevant in the twenty-first century?
3. Do nuclear weapons have strategic and/or tactical utility?
4. Should ‘political warfare’ be considered a genuine form of warfare? Why or Why not?
5. Assess the effectiveness of the counter-insurgency strategies used by the US and NATO in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2014. What lessons can be drawn to improve counter-insurgency strategy in the future?
6. To what extent do advances in artificial intelligence and autonomous weapon systems represent a ‘revolution in military affairs’?

ADVICE: It is up to you how you choose to address your chosen question, but you should

always seek to support your argument with empirical evidence through discussion of

relevant cases or examples. The essay should also be grounded in more general theoretical

and conceptual understandings of warfare and strategy as covered throughout the unit. The

essay should flow logically from a short introduction to the argument and evidence in the

main body, followed by a conclusion. It should reflect wide reading and demonstrate critical

analysis and objectivity.

Assessment Requirements Summary

The research essay required students to select one question from a list of contemporary issues in warfare and strategy. The key requirements included:

• Choosing and clearly stating one research question.

• Developing a logical essay structure: introduction, main body (argument with evidence), and conclusion.

• Supporting the argument with empirical evidence drawn from real-world cases or examples.

• Grounding the essay in theoretical and conceptual understandings of warfare and strategy.

• Demonstrating critical analysis, objectivity, and wide reading.

• Writing in a clear, academic style with smooth flow and logical progression.

Academic Mentor’s Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Understanding the Question

   • The mentor first helped the student carefully analyze the chosen topic, ensuring clarity on the scope (e.g., “Do nuclear weapons have strategic and/or tactical utility?.

   • Together, they broke down the key terms – strategic, tactical, utility, and relevance in modern warfare.

2. Research & Evidence Gathering

   • The mentor guided the student to collect both primary case examples (Hiroshima/Nagasaki, Cold War deterrence, India-Pakistan nuclear posturing, North Korea) and secondary sources (academic articles, military theorists, and strategic studies literature).

   • Emphasis was placed on balancing empirical evidence with theoretical perspectives (Clausewitz, deterrence theory, balance of power).

3. Structuring the Essay

   • Introduction: Define the question, set out the thesis statement, and outline the argument flow.

   • Main Body:

     • Present theoretical background (concepts of deterrence, MAD, tactical vs. strategic use).

     • Discuss historical and contemporary examples.

     • Critically evaluate both supporting and opposing arguments.

   • Conclusion: Reaffirm thesis, summarize insights, connect theory with practice.

4. Critical Thinking & Objectivity

   • The mentor encouraged the student not just to agree/disagree but to evaluate the extent of nuclear utility.

   • Objectivity was reinforced by considering multiple viewpoints, including those arguing nuclear weapons are more political than tactical.

5. Drafting & Refinement

   • Initial draft was reviewed to ensure clarity, flow, and coherence.

   • Mentor suggested refining topic sentences, integrating citations, and strengthening the conclusion.

Outcome & Learning Objectives Achieved

• The student produced a well-structured essay that addressed the question directly.

• Demonstrated ability to connect theory with real-world military cases.

• Showed critical analysis by weighing different perspectives rather than presenting a one-sided view.

• Developed academic writing skills, particularly in argument formation and evidence integration.

Get Inspired, But Stay Original

Looking for guidance on how to approach similar assignments? You can download the sample solution provided on this page to understand the structure, research depth, and academic style required. This resource is designed purely for reference and learning purposes.

Important Notice: Submitting this sample directly as your own work may lead to plagiarism issues and academic penalties. Use it only as a study guide to shape your own ideas.

If you need a fresh, plagiarism-free solution tailored to your specific requirements, our team of professional academic writers is here to help. With expertise across diverse subjects, they ensure:

• 100% original and custom-written solutions

• Properly cited references and academic formatting

• On-time delivery, even for urgent deadlines

• High-quality, well-researched content for better grades

Take control of your academic success learn from the sample and secure a custom solution that’s written just for you.

[Download Sample Solution]  [Order Fresh Assignment]