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Other literature type . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Other literature type . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
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The Gorgon Trap: Entropy, Cognitive Paralysis, and the Mechanics of Cognitive Warfare

Authors: Briggs, Chad; Danyk, Yuriy; Weiss, Robert;

The Gorgon Trap: Entropy, Cognitive Paralysis, and the Mechanics of Cognitive Warfare

Abstract

Modern cognitive warfare (CW) extends beyond traditional influence operations aimed at persuasion; its primary objective is often the induction of systemic cognitive paralysis, a phenomenon we term the "Gorgon Trap." Classical information frameworks, rooted in Shannon’s transmission models and Dempster-Shafer theory, fail to capture the mechanics and dynamics of these modern attacks because they assume a rational actor processing a stable and predictable hypothesis space. By bridging military theory with quantum cognition, this paper reconceptualizes targeted societies as complex systems represented by a density matrix. We model how adversaries utilize "White Noise" (dimensional expansion) and "Black Noise" (signal suppression) to deliberately maximize von Neumann entropy within a target. In this expanded environment, traditional game-theoretic payoff matrices dissolve, and the effective capacity to act approaches zero, leading to catastrophic OODA loop failure. Finally, to counter the onset of institutional necrosis, we propose a shift away from passive fact-checking toward an offensive doctrine of active "Narrative Interruption." 

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
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