Moral dimension of military uniform

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to define and explain the moral dimension and significance of military uniform. Since this particular dimension has not been explained enough, by the analysis of the existing perspectives of meaning and function of military uniform (technical, historical, psychological, sociological, legal, etc.), the author identifies its core moral significance, and formulates and elaborates its moral dimension. Moral dimension of military uniform is derived both from its practical and its symbolic function - its practical function is to precisely separate combats from non-combatants, while its symbolic function reflects collective identity, norms and values of military profession. The paper elaborates different significant moral implications of putting on and wearing military uniform, both during war and peace time, thus showing its twofold symbolic and value function - it simultaneously imposes duty, but also brings privilege to the person wearing it. It has been concluded that the sacrilization of military uniform is necessary in modern society, especially due to its prominent moral dimension and poses the need for legal regulation of wearing military uniform, its parts, or the uniforms which were purposefully designed so as to resemble military uniforms.

Keywords

• military uniform
• moral
• ethics
• collective identity
• deindividuation
• virtues
• military profession
• combatants and noncombatants
• prestige
• symbolism