Future challenges of cognitive warfare and providing defense strategies for the Islamic Republic of Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Imam Hossein University, Tehran, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Faculty and Research Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Cognitive Sciences, Imam Hossein (AS) University, Tehran, Iran.

3 Postdoctoral Researcher, Department of International Relations, Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

With the growth of information and communication technologies and the increasing influence of social media on public opinion, cognitive warfare has become a powerful tool for changing collective minds, attitudes, and behaviors. In fact, this type of warfare means using information, narratives, and narrative creation to shape public opinion, change behavior, and weaken the enemy's social and political identity. Unlike traditional wars that focus on physical and military actions, it attacks the religious, cultural, and social institutions of individuals and societies, and uses digital tools and social media. Therefore, given that cognitive warfare creates numerous challenges to various aspects of national security, social cohesion, and cultural identity of the target country, it is necessary to recognize these challenges and provide defensive strategies to confront them. Therefore, in this research, we are trying to answer the question based on documentary methods: what challenges will cognitive warfare create for the Islamic Republic of Iran in the future and what strategies should be adopted to confront these challenges? The results of the research show that due to the increasing influence of social media, the emergence of new technologies, the effects of globalization, and social and cultural changes, cognitive warfare will create numerous challenges for the Islamic Republic of Iran in the future, and strategies such as strengthening media literacy, using new technologies to combat misinformation, and emphasizing national and cultural identity can be effective in confronting these challenges.

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References

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Military Psychology
Volume 16, Issue 1 - Serial Number 61
Spring Quarterly
September 2025
Pages 103-137

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History

  • Receive Date: 09 March 2025
  • Revise Date: 21 April 2025
  • Accept Date: 03 September 2025

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