Modern War: A Very Short Introduction

Warfare is the most dangerous threat faced by modern humanity. It is also one of the key influences that has shaped the politics, economics, and society of the modern period. But what do we mean by modern war? What causes modern wars to begin? Why do people fight in them, why do they end, and what have they achieved? In this accessible and compelling Very Short Introduction, Richard English explores the assumptions we make about modern warfare and considers them against the backdrop of their historical reality. Drawing on the wide literature available, including direct accounts of the experience of war, English provides an authoritative account of modern war: its origins, evolution, dynamics, and current trends. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable. English has developed a cogent and useful introduction to modern war. An understanding of war is a key element of civic education, and English has made the subject accessible. Modern War will be of particular value not just to students but to educators considering how to teach the topics of war and modern military history. H.R. McMaster, Survival Profound thought and a compelling text explain why and how states, societies and peoples resort to "the awfulness of war". English avoids glib generalisations because he knows too much and thinks too deeply. ... Anyone who wants to understand wars and their legacies should read it, twice. Times Higher EducationAcknowledgements ; List of illustrations and maps ; Introduction ; 1. What is modern war? ; 2. What causes modern wars to begin? ; 3. What has the experience of modern war involved? ; 4. What have modern wars achieved? ; Conclusion: war, terrorism, and the future ; References ; Further reading