At the outset of the 1980's NATO decided to extend the scien­ tific program of its Scientific Affairs Division to include the social sciences. Strategic and international studies were in­ cluded within this domain
with the express purpose of facilitating communication among experts and research centers in member coun­ tries as well as in the Organization itself on these important topics. This study is the result of the first Advanced
Research Workshop on a subject of international relations. It focuses on the historical and theoretical aspects of geopolitics because they must necessarily precede studies of policy application. This was the intent of the
organizers of the Workshop as well as of the sponsoring institution. The choice of the topic was ours. Conclusions were drawn according to our own judgments--being totally unfettered by any guidance from NATO officials.
Consequently, the views and conclu­ sions presented in this work do not represent any NATO policy; other than the encouragement of research in political freedom, by free scholars, to strengthen freedom everywhere. We speak for
all participants in the Workshop when we voice our appreciation for the financial and organizational support extended us by the Scientific Affairs Division and the Information Directorate.