Authority Quote by Philip Bobbitt
“A state that privatizes most of its functions will inevitably defend itself by employing its own people as mercenaries”
About This Quote
A state that outsources most functions tends to protect itself by hiring its own citizens as mercenaries.
In simple terms: Privatized governments may rely on hired soldiers from within.
Key Takeaway
Consider the risks of over‑privatization.
Themes
statecraft
privatization
military
sovereignty
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
political
strategic
When to use this quote
- government reform
- defense policy
- civil war
- foreign intervention
Key Concepts
political theory
security studies
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards prevent a state from becoming a mercenary employer?
- How does privatization affect accountability?
A Different Perspective
Reliance on mercenaries can erode legitimacy.
![“The rationale which accompanies that imposition of male authority euphemistically referred to as 'the battle of the sexes' bears a certain resemblance to the formulas of nations at war, where any heinousness is justified on the grounds that the enemy is either an inferior [part of the] species or…” quote by Kate Millett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/895/kate-millett-7301_accompany_the-rationale-which-accompanies-that-imp_8896.jpg)