Own goal! When war becomes its own end—and society the means

This afterword to the theme section on in/visibilizing statehood agrees that capitalism in combination with contemporary state processes is integral to the growth of global conflict and war. But it notes that this is particularly so when socioeconomic and political reproduction depends on war as its principal dynamic. This is especially apparent in what may be termed “plunder states,” which have emerged throughout history and prior to the emergence of capitalism. These highlight the society-annihilating potential of societies (state and non-state orders) whose reproductive dynamic is founded on war, a potential most likely thoroughly achievable through capital allied with the creation of technologies especially suitable for the pursuit of war.