What role does violence play in warfare?

Violence is a fundamental aspect of warfare, serving as a means to compel an adversary to comply with one’s strategic objectives. When a military force employs violence through various methods, such as direct engagements or targeted operations, it seeks to disrupt the enemy’s capabilities, diminish their will to fight, and compel them to accept terms favorable to the initiating force. This principle reflects the core nature of conflict, where the use of force is intended to influence the behavior and decisions of the opponent.

The use of violence emphasizes its role as a tool for achieving strategic aims rather than merely a response to circumstances. While one can argue that there are methods for resolving conflicts that do not involve violence, in the context of warfare, the application of force can decisively alter the balance of power and create conditions for a favorable resolution.

In acknowledging the various approaches to conflict, it is essential to recognize that while some perspectives view violence as a last resort or something to be minimized, these views do not encapsulate the proactive nature of how violence is integrated into broader strategic frameworks for achieving victory in warfare.