The Military Profession and Asymmetric Warfare

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to understand the meaning of asymmetric warfare and its effect on the military profession and the identity of the soldierly subject.

Methodology/approach – Review of the relevant literature.

Findings – The findings highlight that in asymmetric warfare expectations for success should be modest. Here, the concept of ‘sufficient victory’ is applied. The characteristics of asymmetric warfare should be taken into account when talking about the professional ethos of the soldier.

Research limitations/implications – The implications for researchers and practitioners center on the question of how to adequately submit the message to the individual soldier, i.e., the implications is to be seen with regard to education in the military.

Originality/value of paper – The application of the concept of ‘sufficient victory’ is original.

Citation

Caforio, G. (2012), "The Military Profession and Asymmetric Warfare", Kümmel, G. and Soeters, J. (Ed.) New Wars, New Militaries, New Soldiers: Conflicts, the Armed Forces and the Soldierly Subject (Contributions to Conflict Management, Peace Economics and Development, Vol. 19), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 3-18. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1572-8323(2012)0000019005