ABSTRACT
Clausewitz's comprehension of chance to the constantly changing and evolving nature of a particular war as it unfolds. This relates particularly well to the idea that Clausewitzian theory resembles what today is termed non-linear theory. The cause-and-effect nexus which is at the heart of the Trinity sends out 'ripples', which feed into and affect the continuously evolving nature of war. Just as the proliferation of hostility produces multiple outcomes, so too does chance pervade everything. This chapter provides a brief exploration of its manifold effects. To achieve this, chance is investigated through the unfolding relationship between the combatants in Yugoslavia and the international community during the period 1991-95. In Clausewitz's Trinity, chance exemplifies the unforeseen within the constantly oscillating nature of war. It is a natural by-product of war itself and the commander and political leaders require special acuity if they are to overcome its mercurial tendency to pervert the very best of strategies.
