Final answer:
The rationale for engaging in conflict with a group is dependent on the likelihood of victory and the justice of the cause. Strategic principles from historical warfare and the moral complexities of events like the Civil War play a role in such decisions. Ultimately, societal values and ideologies determine the propensity for or against warfare.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing the rationale behind engaging with an opposing group, a key element to consider is the purpose of the conflict. As historical records like Plutarch's accounts of Julius Caesar show, the glorification of military successes has often been a driving factor in warfare. The strategic considerations in warfare, as articulated in the ancient texts, emphasize the importance of ensuring victory and advantageous conditions for conflict.
From a strategic viewpoint, one has to assess whether fighting will bring about victory. If victory is certain and the cause just, then fighting is warranted, even if opposed by higher authority. However, if victory is not assured, then engaging in battle is unwise, regardless of commands from leadership. The application of these principles can be witnessed in historical events such as the Civil War, where the moral undertaking of ending slavery was considered by some to be a just cause worth fighting for, beyond the immediate scope of the war.
Additionally, tactics to confuse the enemy, such as presenting something unaccountable, splitting forces to create an advantage, and keeping battle plans secret, all underscore the need to outmaneuver the opponent strategically.
The conversation around the motivations for warfare is nuanced. While some argue that the Civil War was fought over states' rights, others conflate it with the broader issue of slavery, highlighting the complexities of historical narratives and the reasons groups engage in conflict. Ultimately, the ability to prosper peacefully or persist in war rests upon cultural perceptions and the willingness of individuals to challenge destructive ideologies.