Elites in Action: Change and Continuity in Strategic Culture

The aim of this review article is to explore some theoretical issues regarding the role played by elites in the change and continuity of a country’s strategic culture. Despite the growing interest in the issue of strategic culture and change, current approaches still show some noteworthy shortcomings, particularly related to the role played by elites during the process. Based on Ann Swidler’s works on culture, this article suggests that, contrary to the idea shared by many in strategic-cultural studies, who believe that strategic action is a conscious activity, a strategic act need not be entirely explicit and conscious.