Militarism

Nature

Militarism is a policy or doctrine, or a system of power relationships that values war and accords primacy in state and society to the armed forces. It exalts the application of violence and the authoritarian structure of the military establishment. Militarism ceases to be simply an attitude when actions such as threats by the military or their regimes are made. Military Coups d'état, juntas and the like may impose martial law or illegally suspend civil liberties. Militarism in tribal society takes the form of warrior prowess and hero worship. In more sophisticated society it may take the form of military government or effective military control or the encouragement to spend lavishly on defence or to engage in war.

Background

Militarism emerged as a recognized global concern in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly with the arms races preceding World War I. Its significance intensified as scholars and policymakers linked militaristic policies to international instability and conflict. The Cold War era further highlighted militarism’s pervasive influence, prompting international debates and research into its societal, economic, and political impacts, as documented by organizations such as SIPRI (https://www.sipri.org/) and the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute Yearbook.

Incidence

Militarism continues to shape global affairs, with significant military expenditures and the prioritization of armed forces evident in numerous countries. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), global military spending reached a record $2.24 trillion in 2022, with increases observed across all regions. The persistent allocation of vast resources to military development often diverts funding from social and economic needs, contributing to regional arms races and heightened international tensions.
In 2023, the Russian Federation’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine exemplified militarism’s impact, as both nations escalated military mobilization and spending. This conflict intensified regional insecurity and prompted increased defense budgets across Europe.

Claim

Militarism is a rapidly growing factor in the complex network of social, political and economic causes of ill health among the world's poor. Wars, such as that in the Gulf, stimulate demand for expensive high-technology weaponry that tends to worsen developing country debt and the cycle of poverty.

While the cold war is over, the Gulf war demonstrated that the culture of militarism in our society has not been effectively challenged.

Counter-claim

Military expertise may be inadequately represented in the foreign policy process, since threats or actions of force may sometimes be required, if only to indicate defensive capabilities.