What is War Good For?
War is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has been a part of human history for centuries. While it is often associated with destruction, suffering, and chaos, war can also have positive outcomes and benefits. In this article, we will explore some of the potential advantages of war and examine the situations in which it may be justified.
Defending National Sovereignty
One of the most obvious reasons for going to war is to defend one’s country and its sovereignty. Protecting national borders and interests is a fundamental responsibility of any government, and war can be a means of achieving this goal. When a country is threatened by an external force, such as an invading army or a terrorist organization, war may be the only way to defend its territory and people.
| Examples of Wars Fought to Defend National Sovereignty |
|---|
| • The United States’ involvement in World War II to defend its sovereignty against Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan |
| • The Israeli Defense Forces’ battles against Arab states in the 1967 Six-Day War to protect its borders |
| • The British military’s defense of its colonies during the American Revolutionary War |
Enforcing International Law and Justice
War can also be used to enforce international law and justice. Preventing genocide and human rights abuses is a critical aspect of international relations, and war may be necessary to stop these atrocities. The international community has a moral obligation to intervene in situations where civilians are being targeted or persecuted, and war can be a means of achieving this goal.
| Examples of Wars Fought to Enforce International Law and Justice |
|---|
| • The Allied powers’ invasion of Nazi Germany to stop the Holocaust |
| • The international community’s intervention in Bosnia and Herzegovina during the Yugoslav Wars to stop ethnic cleansing |
| • The NATO-led intervention in Kosovo to stop Serbian aggression |
Promoting Peace and Stability
Ironically, war can sometimes be a means of promoting peace and stability in the long run. Removing a threat to regional stability can be a necessary step towards achieving lasting peace. For example, the United States’ invasion of Afghanistan in 2001 was motivated by the need to remove the Taliban regime, which had provided a safe haven for terrorist organizations.
| Examples of Wars Fought to Promote Peace and Stability |
|---|
| • The United States’ involvement in the Gulf War to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation |
| • The international community’s intervention in Somalia to remove warlord Mohamed Farrah Aidid |
| • The NATO-led intervention in Libya to remove Muammar Gaddafi’s regime |
Economic and Industrial Advantages
War can also have economic and industrial advantages. Developing new technologies and industries is a common byproduct of war, as countries seek to improve their military capabilities and develop new weapons systems. The development of the internet, for example, was largely driven by the United States’ military’s need for a secure and reliable communication system.
| Examples of Economic and Industrial Advantages of War |
|---|
| • The development of radar technology during World War II |
| • The development of the jet engine during the Cold War |
| • The development of satellite technology during the 1960s and 1970s |
Conclusion
While war is often associated with destruction and chaos, it can also have positive outcomes and benefits. Defending national sovereignty, enforcing international law and justice, promoting peace and stability, and economic and industrial advantages are all potential advantages of war. However, it is essential to recognize that war is a last resort and should only be considered when all other options have been exhausted.
