The Ethics of Special Ops
Raids, Recoveries, Reconnaissance, and Rebels

Addresses one largely overlooked trend in the field of military ethics, the emergence of special operations as an instrument of statecraft.

Deane-Peter Baker (Author), Roger Herbert (Author), David Whetham (Author)

9781009665094, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 12 June 2025

246 pages
23 x 15.2 x 1.4 cm, 0.351 kg

'As the authors point out, ethical armoring of special operations forces is essential. Intense, recurring special-ops-worthy training in combat ethics will create ethical habits and instincts to guide individual and group reactions in times of dynamic uncertainty. The authors deliberately stop short of offering a moral theory of special operations but leave to readers that unfinished and urgent work. For moving modern special ops toward a more holistic and resilient warrior ethos - body, mind, and soul - this book is a damn good place to start.' Captain R. V. Gusentine, Proceedings

The field of military ethics has generally been attentive to emerging trends in modern warfare. Cyber, robotics and AI, for example, have inspired an abundant and flourishing literature. One trend, however, has been largely overlooked: the emergence of special operations as a prominent instrument of statecraft. Drawing extensively on historical cases and first-hand experience, the authors of this book call attention to qualities inherent in special operations – and special operators – that challenge the moral framework which has long informed conventional military operations. Moral theorists will find this analysis provocative, while practitioners – those who conduct or oversee special operations and have an interest in the moral wellbeing of special operators – can put the authors' insights to practical use. Those who simply view with fascination the opaque world of special operations will find this book illuminating.

1. Introduction
2. Raids
3. Recoveries
4. Reconnaissance
5. Rebels
6. Not quite war: special operations and the Jus ad bellum convention
7. Ethical armouring for special operations forces
Index.

Subject Areas: Ethics & moral philosophy [HPQ]