Character and professionalism in the context of developing countries – the example of mercenaries

Abstract

It is often thought that modern professionalism means putting aside one’s particular ethical tradition – which might affirm particular family and clan relations – in favour of the rules pertaining to that profession in the context of the promotion of universal ethical principles. In an increasingly commercialized and individualistic society, however, such ethical traditions and identity-forming narratives may be the key motivating framework for the ethical integrity of the professions. In South Africa this promotion of an overarching narrative is termed nation-building. I take as example the military profession and in particular the use of mercenaries. Distinguishing between skills and virtues I ask whether or not there is a necessary connection between good soldiering and being a citizen – this being understood here as a moral category entailing a certain ideal of character and particular virtues. I conclude that the action of a privately contracted soldier is not in general morally praiseworthy and should not be encouraged in an ethically oriented society.