Mark R. Fries

Abstract

The private military and security industry has had such a profound impact on modern warfare that it deserves closer attention. The real debate that this article seeks to contribute to is whether or not the use of private military and security companies (PMSCs) is ethical, how it affects our globalized societies, and why members of democratic societies in particular have a responsibility to engage with the moral issues that surround PMSCs. This article therefore aims to help establish moral limitations in regards to the use of PMSCs by employing a cumulative legitimacy approach. It also endeavors to demonstrate the effects that PMSCs may have on social structures, such as the possible emergence of neomedievalism, and explain, through the social connection model, why one has a moral responsibility to ensure that PMSCs are utilized in a just manner even if one is not blameworthy for their immoral actions. By understanding if and how PMSCs can be used ethically, one can begin to implement effective and responsible policies to regulate them.