Cognitive Warfare: Diagnostics of Threats and Strategies of Active Protection

Abstract

Introduction. The contemporary stage of geopolitical relations is characterized by the shift of the main confrontation from the physical sphere to the cognitive domain, where the targets of influence are the mechanisms of thinking, decision-making, and the value structures of the population. Children and youth represent the most vulnerable category, as their psychological and cognitive systems are still in the process of formation. Methods. The study is based on an interdisciplinary synthesis of post-structuralist philosophy (Michel Foucault, Jacques Derrida, Gilles Deleuze, Félix Guattari), critical media theory (Noam Chomsky), the anthropological approach (Yuval Noah Harari), the theory of reflexive control (Vladimir Lefebvre), the theory of cognitive matrices (Vardan Bagdasaryan), the operational analysis of information operations (Andrey Manoilo), the concepts of cognitive sovereignty (Vladimir Nikishin) and mental security (Andrey Kovalev), as well as on the analysis of Russian Federation documents, NATO materials, and data from empirical studies. Analysis. It examines NATO's concept of cognitive warfare (three levels of impact – biological, psychological, and social – and the notion of cognitive superiority), as well as the NextGen Information Environment documents (neuro-warfare and agent-based systems). The theory of reflexive control developed by Vladimir Lefebvre is discussed, and the technological implementation of reflexive control through AI algorithms is analyzed, including semantic data filtering, ontological framing, and epistemic colonialism. The author proposes a model of five levels of cognitive impact. Particular attention is paid to digital threats affecting children and youth: the neurophysiological vulnerability of the developing brain, Global Mind Project data on the critical age of 13, dopamine-driven dependency, clip thinking, self-harm, and official statistics on rising crime rates. The paper also proposes strategies of active counteraction, including ten steps for parents, recommendations for educators and the state, the concept of cognitive sovereignty, and engagement with opinion leaders. Conclusions. Cognitive warfare is conducted against every citizen, beginning in childhood. Effective protection requires a transition toward the proactive development of cognitive resilience based on the principles of cognitive sovereignty.