The "Lessons Learned" Trap and How o Avoid It: Drawing from the Israeli Armoured Experience, 1948-1973
Volume 2, Issue 1 (2016), pp. 117–128
Pub. online: 1 June 2016
Type: Research Article
Open Access
Open Access
Published
1 June 2016
1 June 2016
Abstract
The following essay explores some of the problems
with “lessons learned.” It offers a few tentative observations on the limitations and dangers of lessons. To illustrate these (but not necessarily prove them), it then looks at the experiences of the Israel Defence Forces, particularly its armoured forces, from 1948
to 1973. Finally, three recommendations discuss how military organizations might reduce the danger of lessons leading them astray.