Audio Quote by Philip Alston
“Because operators are based thousands of miles away from the battlefield, and undertake operations entirely through computer screens and remote audio feed, there is a risk of developing a 'PlayStation' mentality to killing.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: UN Human Rights Council, 2019
Remote warfare can desensitize soldiers, treating killing like a video game.
In simple terms: Remote combat feels like a game.
Key Takeaway
Maintain humanity in remote operations.
Themes
ethics
technology
warfare
Mood
concerned
serious
Type
ethical
political
When to use this quote
- drone strikes
- cyber warfare
- training programs
- policy making
Key Concepts
psychological distance
military policy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we preserve empathy in remote combat?
- What safeguards are needed?
A Different Perspective
Technology may also increase efficiency and reduce casualties.
![“The problem with the United States is that it is making an increased use of drones/Predators [which are] particularly prominently used now in relation to Pakistan and Afghanistan...My concern is that drones/Predators are being operated in a framework which may well violate international…” quote by Philip Alston](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bfc/philip-alston-86410_afghanistan_the-problem-with-the-united-states-is-th_2869258.jpg)
