P.W. Singer and the Power of Useful Fiction
In this episode of the Revolution Military Affairs Podcast, we sit down with Peter Singer, renowned author of Ghost Fleet and LikeWar, and a thought leader in exploring the future of war and security. Peter discusses "useful fiction," a powerful method blending rigorous nonfiction analysis with storytelling to communicate complex insights about future conflict and competition. By creating engaging narratives, useful fiction transforms dense concepts like military strategy and emerging technologies into relatable and actionable ideas.
Peter shares how this approach has been used in projects for clients such as NATO and U.S. Special Operations Command. From scenarios addressing contested logistics to narrative-driven accompaniments for doctrine like FM 3-0, useful fiction helps leaders visualize and internalize strategic principles. Singer emphasizes the importance of grounding these stories in reality—technology must be feasible and set within the next generation, adhering to the "no vaporware rule."
The conversation touches on institutional reluctance to embrace change, the need to adapt in an era of multi-domain operations, and the lessons history teaches about innovation and resistance. With humor and depth, Peter explains how stories help us not just imagine the future, but prepare for it. A must-listen for military thinkers and strategists!
Visit Useful Fiction at the following link: https://useful-fiction.com/about-us/
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