Reality theory: A means to control the public`s fear of chemical weapons use. Research report
On 20 March 1995 terrorists released the chemical nerve agent sarin into the Tokyo subway system, killing 10 commuters and changing the public`s attitude about the most basic aspect of their lives: the air they breathe and the daily ritual of their commute to work. This is the new threat the United States must face: terrorism and its attack on the will of the people forcing governments to yield to the terrorists` position. Yet there is a different public response in warfare compared with a peacetime terrorist attack. This paper examines the psychological response of people in wartime and applies this description to chemical weapons use in war and in peace. The public`s response can be predicted if one uses reality theory, a concept leaders can use to mitigate responses that would prevent the execution of national strategy.
- Research Organization:
- Army War Coll., Carlisle Barracks, PA (United States)
- OSTI ID:
- 529787
- Report Number(s):
- AD-A--326446/2/XAB
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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