Western way of war

The Western way of war is a type of warfare that seeks to limit the cost in human lives and property damage. It was developed by the ancient Greeks.

As described by historian Victor Davis Hanson, the hoplite battles of the era often took place on level ground, between heavily armed and armored hoplites using shields and spears. Cavalry and light auxiliary troops played minimal roles in these battles. The hoplites were citizen-soldiers, often farmers who campaigned for a few months and then went home.

Both city-states agreed to abide by the outcome of the battle and there were clearly defined times of war and peace, with declarations or war followed by peace treaties being signed. Following the battle there was very little carnage, with the losing side being treated graciously and not hunted down and killed.

With this system, although the decisive battle itself was often very violent, overall casualties were much lower than the constant, low-level skirmishing that had taken place previously.

Gradually the western way of war became corrupted, with Alexander of Macedon being the worst abuser. His destruction of the city of Thebes and killing or enslavement of the inhabitants was considered dishonorable at the time.

Elements of the western way of war survive in the 21st century, where it is still considered preferable to have peacetime without constant murder and property damage. Ethical questions emerge during times of asymmetric warfare.