Cognitive and Information Warfare in the Conceptual Coordinates of Political Science

The article offers a comparative analysis of the concepts of cognitive and information warfare within both Russian and international academic traditions. In the context of digitalization and increasingly complex communication processes, the study of new forms of intangible confrontation aimed at transforming individual behavior and internal mental schemas has become especially relevant. Cognitive transformation, here, refers to the alteration of stable mental structures responsible for perception, interpretation, and response to incoming information. The objective of this study is to delineate the conceptual boundaries of «information warfare» and

«cognitive warfare» through a comparative approach. The article identifies their key characteristics and theoretical distinctions. The analysis reveals both shared and divergent features in terms of their primary objects, goals, methods, tools, and anticipated outcomes. It is demonstrated that cognitive warfare constitutes an advanced form of non-kinetic influence, with a primary focus on modifying cognitive functions and interpretative frameworks rather than merely manipulating informational content. Furthermore, the article explores the potential institutionalization of cognitive warfare as an independent strategic domain, driven by the rapid development of neuroscience, attention-modulation technologies, and artificial intelligence. A refined definition of cognitive warfare is proposed, clarifying its place in the evolving spectrum of modern strategic conflict. The findings contribute to the theoretical advancement of cognitive warfare studies and may serve as a foundation for practical strategies to counter such threats. The conclusion emphasizes the need for an interdisciplinary approach – integrating political science, neuroscience, and cognitive psychology – to more fully understand the nature of emerging political conflicts.

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