War—a word that stirs images of chaos, conflict, and destruction. It’s a concept as old as civilization itself, shaping history in ways both profound and catastrophic. But if history teaches us anything, it’s to ask the hard questions about its purpose and value in society. What is war good for? Does it serve any legitimate function, or is it simply a destructive force that leaves humanity worse off?
This blog takes a deep dive into the multifaceted nature of war. We’ll explore its historical significance, its impact on societies, economies, and cultures, and whether it offers any benefits amidst the undeniable costs. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of not just what war does, but how its purpose has been framed throughout history—and whether it aligns with the progress of humanity today.
The Historical Function of War
War has been a defining force in human history. It has shaped empires, determined borders, and even acted as a catalyst for technological and societal change. But why have humans engaged in war so persistently?
Power and Expansion
Historically, war has often been a tool for territorial expansion. Ancient civilizations from the Roman Empire to the Mongol Empire engaged in conquest to secure resources, enhance political power, or demonstrate dominance. These wars weren’t just about land; they were about control—control over trade routes, wealth, and influence.
For instance, during the 19th century, European colonial powers used military force to colonize vast regions across Africa, Asia, and India. These imperial wars redrew borders, often ignoring the cultural and ethnic landscapes of the territories they claimed, leading to conflicts that still echo to this day.
Defense and Survival
While offense often grabs the spotlight, war has historically been waged as a means of survival. Defensive wars have been fought to protect a nation’s sovereignty, resources, or cultural identity. Think of World War II, where Allied forces banded together to halt the expansion of Axis powers. It’s undeniable that some wars have been fought out of necessity rather than ambition.
Revolution and Change
War has also been a lightning rod for revolutionary change. Many societies have fought for independence, freedoms, or reforms through armed conflict. The American Revolution, for example, birthed a nation founded on democratic ideals. Meanwhile, wars like the French Revolution fundamentally reshaped global ideas of governance and the rights of citizens.
Yet, revolutionary wars pose their own challenges. Even if inspired by noble causes, they often leave destruction, disillusionment, and unresolved tensions in their wake.
The Impact of War on Society
While war’s primary purpose might be political or economic, its ripple effects on societies are vast and varied. Here are some of the key impacts—both positive and negative.
The Toll on Humanity
It’s no secret that war wreaks havoc on human lives. Civilian casualties, displaced populations, and broken families are the visible scars left behind. Recent statistics from the United Nations report nearly 108 million refugees and forcibly displaced people around the world—many of whom are fleeing areas of conflict.
Wars don’t just kill; they weaken communities, devastate economies, and leave generations grappling with trauma. The impacts of conflict in regions like Syria, Yemen, and Afghanistan show how deeply war can disrupt day-to-day life, impeding access to healthcare, food, and education for decades.
Economic Consequences
War’s economic impact is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s notoriously destructive—obliterating infrastructure, draining national budgets, and dragging economies into recessions. On the other hand, war has historically driven technological advancements that spur growth in other areas.
For instance, World War II led to innovations in radar, jet engines, and even early computing. The Cold War arms race pushed forward satellite technology, which underpins industries such as telecommunications and GPS navigation today. But these advancements often come at an enormous human and financial cost.
Cultural Shifts
War irrevocably alters cultures. It can fracture societies but also forge shared identities. Literature, art, and music have long documented the human experience of war, from Wilfred Owen’s poetry bringing raw emotion to the horrors of World War I, to Picasso’s Guernica symbolizing the anguish of civilians during conflict.
Sometimes, war also results in unexpected benefits to cultural preservation. For example, wars to defend national identity or against oppressive regimes often revitalize cultural pride and heritage that might otherwise have been eroded.
Is War Ever “Good” for Anything?
This haunting question continues to stir debate among historians, philosophers, and modern society. While no one relishes the idea of war, there are instances where its outcomes have been deemed justifiable or even necessary.
- National Defense: History has proven that defending against an aggressor is often unavoidable. The question isn’t whether wars like World War II were tragic—they undoubtedly were—but whether the collective good of defeating oppressive regimes outweighed the costs.
- Scientific Advancements: As troubling as it is, war often accelerates innovation. Technologies from antibiotics to airplanes owe their early development to wartime necessity.
- Global Order: While imperfect, wars have sometimes paved the way for new frameworks of international governance. The League of Nations and later the United Nations, for example, were born out of efforts to prevent further conflicts after World Wars I and II.
That said, these outcomes do not retroactively justify war—especially in light of its enormous costs.
Lessons for the Present and the Future
If war is destructive by nature, how do we avoid its cycle while addressing the underlying tensions it seeks to resolve?
Diplomacy Over Aggression
History teaches us that long-lasting peace is built through diplomacy, not force. Treaties like the Marshall Plan, which rebuilt Europe post-WWII, demonstrate that economic and social cooperation can strengthen alliances far more effectively than military force.
Investing in Stability
Wars often stem from instability—economic inequality, resource scarcity, and political corruption. Addressing these issues at their root through humanitarian aid, education, and sustainable development is far less costly (both financially and morally) than armed conflict.
A Cultural Shift Toward Peace
Movements advocating peace, from Gandhi’s nonviolent resistance to the modern push for nuclear disarmament, show the power of cultural and grassroots campaigns for change. The more we frame peace as a cultural norm, the less society will resort to war as a default solution.
Reframing the Question
War is complex—it leaves behind ash and sometimes fertile soil. But whether we view it as necessary or abhorrent, the truth lies in how we respond to its lessons. The deeper question we should ask isn’t just, “What is war good for?” but rather, “How can we build a world that doesn’t need it?”
