The Ethics of Special Ops: Raids, Recoveries, Reconnaissance, and Rebels [Paperback]

Addresses one largely overlooked trend in the field of military ethics, the emergence of special operations as an instrument of statecraft.This book addresses one largely overlooked trend in the field of military ethics, the emergence of special operations as a prominent instrument of statecraft. The authors' analysis calls attention to qualities inherent in special operations that challenge the moral framework which informs conventional military operations.This book addresses one largely overlooked trend in the field of military ethics, the emergence of special operations as a prominent instrument of statecraft. The authors' analysis calls attention to qualities inherent in special operations that challenge the moral framework which informs conventional military operations.The field of military ethics has generally been attentive to emerging trends in modern warfare. Cyber, robotics and AI, for example, have inspired an abundant and flourishing literature. One trend, however, has been largely overlooked: the emergence of special operations as a prominent instrument of statecraft. Drawing extensively on historical cases and first-hand experience, the authors of this book call attention to qualities inherent in special operations  and special operators  that challenge the moral framework which has long informed conventional military operations. Moral theorists will find this analysis provocative, while practitioners  those who conduct or oversee special operations and have an interest in the moral wellbeing of special operators  can put the authors' insights to practical use. Those who simply view with fascination the opaque world of special operations will find this book illuminating.1. Introduction; 2. Raids; 3. Recoveries; 4. Reconnaissance; 5. Rebels; 6. Not quite war: special operations and the Jus ad bellum convention; 7. Ethical armouring for special operations forces; Index.This is a must-read book for anyone with an interest in the interplay of ethics, lÓÙ