War: Research Starters Topic
The topic of war encompasses a complex and multifaceted definition, often viewed through various lenses. At its core, war is typically described as a conflict involving two or more parties, which can be political organizations like states or nations, as highlighted by theorists such as Karl von Clausewitz. The term itself has roots in languages suggesting confusion and discord, reflecting the chaotic nature of warfare. The exploration of war extends to numerous subtopics, including significant historical conflicts such as the American Revolutionary War and World War II, as well as contemporary issues like the War on Terror and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally, the discourse around war touches on themes such as military ethics, war literature, and the impact of warfare on society, evidenced by topics like war crimes, war profiteering, and the role of the United Nations. The study of war is not only about the battles fought but also examines the human condition, societal repercussions, and the continuing debates surrounding military actions and their justifications. This wide-ranging topic invites further exploration into its various dimensions and implications for history and modern society.
Subject Terms
War: Research Starters Topic
War: Research Starters Topic
To define war is a challenge in and of itself. War is conflict between two or more parties, but how it is manifest depends on a certain point of view. Some, like Karl von Clausewitz, would assert that it is a conflict between two or more political organizations, such as states or nations. Others would view it as a human condition, pitting not just political groups against one another but also humans. The roots of the English are nebulous: from the Frankish-German root, werra, the term means "confusion" and "discord" as well as strife, giving rise to Clausewitz's own term, "the fog of war" (Moseley, 2001). There are numerous Research Starter articles related to this topic. The list below includes the most relevant Research Starter items.
Related Research Starters
Important works in war literature
List of important war films
War Profiteering
War crimes and military justice
War in Afghanistan debate
War surplus and business opportunities
Warfare and the United Nations (UN)
Warfare in Vietnam
Wars
Soviet-Afghan War
Vietnam War
Vietnam War: Research Starters Topic
War of the Austrian Succession
War on Terror (warfare)