Entity: COLLATERAL-DAMAGE
Collateral damage refers to unintended harm or damage caused to civilians or nonmilitary structures during military operations.
COLLATERAL-DAMAGE
Etymology
The term 'collateral damage' originated in the 1980s, initially defined as damage to nonmilitary structures and facilities resulting from a strike on a nearby military target.
Definition
Collateral damage refers to the unintended harm or damage caused to civilians or nonmilitary structures during military operations. It specifically denotes injury inflicted on something other than an intended target, often resulting in civilian casualties.
Historical Context
After the Persian Gulf War, 'collateral damage' gained prominence in specialized military dictionaries, in addition to standard English dictionaries. The term has since been widely used in discussions surrounding the ethical implications of warfare.
Cultural Significance
'Collateral damage' has sparked debates on the morality of military actions and the responsibility of armed forces to minimize harm to civilians during conflicts. It has become a focal point in discussions on the impact of war on innocent bystanders.
Related Concepts
- Civilian casualties
- Ethical warfare
- Noncombatant immunity
See Also
Injury inflicted on something other than an intended target, specifically civilian casualties of a military operation.