Cyber Conflict as Revolutionary Change in
Global Affairs: A Literature Review
S3715930
Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs, Leiden University
Cyber Conflict in International Relations
Dr. Isabella Brunner & Julia Carver
25-09-2025
1570 Words
, 2
Introduction
The rapid growth of cyberspace as a domain of strategic competition has sparked debate
over its implications for international relations. Central to this problem is the question:
According to the academic literature, to what extent does cyber conflict represent a revolutionary
change in global affairs? Scholars diverge on this issue. One perspective emphasizes a
revolutionary paradigm shift, highlighting how cyber operations erode institutional authority,
redistribute power to smaller actors, and blur the boundary between war and peace. A second
view stresses evolutionary continuity, portraying cyber operations as updated forms of
espionage, sabotage, and subversion constrained by familiar political and strategic logics. A third
debate examines the broader implications for global order and international law, where
sovereignty, attribution, and norm developments are strained but remain embedded within
established frameworks. These three themes provide the foundation for assessing whether cyber
conflict transforms or merely adapts existing global dynamics.
Global Affairs: A Literature Review
S3715930
Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs, Leiden University
Cyber Conflict in International Relations
Dr. Isabella Brunner & Julia Carver
25-09-2025
1570 Words
, 2
Introduction
The rapid growth of cyberspace as a domain of strategic competition has sparked debate
over its implications for international relations. Central to this problem is the question:
According to the academic literature, to what extent does cyber conflict represent a revolutionary
change in global affairs? Scholars diverge on this issue. One perspective emphasizes a
revolutionary paradigm shift, highlighting how cyber operations erode institutional authority,
redistribute power to smaller actors, and blur the boundary between war and peace. A second
view stresses evolutionary continuity, portraying cyber operations as updated forms of
espionage, sabotage, and subversion constrained by familiar political and strategic logics. A third
debate examines the broader implications for global order and international law, where
sovereignty, attribution, and norm developments are strained but remain embedded within
established frameworks. These three themes provide the foundation for assessing whether cyber
conflict transforms or merely adapts existing global dynamics.
