The Ancient Art of Modern Warfare

E19: The Rise of Quasi-Mercenary Organizations

The emergence of Quasi-Mercenary Organizations challenges the concept of State monopoly of violence and the legitimacy of PMCS. Governments and other stakeholders need to work together to meet this threat. Originally intended for presentation to the UN Working Group on Mercenaries.

E18 Just War with Iran? with CH(BG) Pat Dolan

With the proliferation of proxy wars, anti-terrorism operations, and mercenaries, can we still fulfill the criteria for justice in going to war and justice in the conduct of war? COL Mayer and BG Dolan discuss this question using the example of recent actions between the United States and Iran.

E17 Perpetual Peace

The idea of Democratic Peace depends on two things, a republican democracy and an educated and active citizenry. This ideal drove US policy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and again a century later

E16: Can there be honor in War?

The third principle of Jus in Bello, after Military Necessity and Humanity, is Honor. Is honor relevant in modern combat, or an archaic concept that died in the trenches of WW1? Col. Jayson Altieri, USA RET of the US Air War College joins Col. Mayer for the discussion.

E15: Military Necessity AND Humanity?

Moving from justice in the act of going to war to just conduct in war. The need to balance Military Necessity and Humanity.

E14 Is Just War Possible with Brig Gen (Chap) Patrick Dolan

Is Just War even possible in modern conflict? Big. Gen. (Chaplain) Patrick Dolan, retired Army Assistant Chief of Chaplains, discusses the possibilities.

E13: The Ancient Concept of Just War in Modern Conflict

Can a war ever be "Just"? Is the ancient concept of Just War still important in contemporary conflicts? What the citizens of the republic should know when the nation decides to use military force.

E12 Mercenary: What's in a Name?

Mercenary, PMSC, PSC, PMC? Is there a difference? Does it matter? The Russians, along with some academics and media sources say no. Those of us trying to promote responsibility and accountability in the use of force disagree.

Questions from Listeners with Dr. Deborah Avant and Doug Brooks

Answers to questions from podcast listeners from Dr. Deborah Avant, University of Denver and author of "The Market for Force" and Mr. Doug Brooks, President Emeritus of the International Stability Operations Association. They respond to questions about PMSCs, their status in international law, and interaction with military forces. In short, they answer, "Why follow the rules?"

E10 The Berlin Wall, the Cold War, and Sun Tzu

Thoughts on the 30th Anniversary of the fall of the Berlin wall, the Cold War and Sun Tzu, and concerns that the lessons are forgotten