Is the practice of total war by individuals or small and poorly armed groups different from its practice by nations and standing armies?

Answer 1

Yes, the practice of total war by individuals or small, poorly armed groups differs significantly from that of nations and standing armies. While nations typically have organized military strategies, resources, and infrastructure to conduct total war, individuals or small groups often resort to guerrilla tactics and asymmetric warfare. Their approach may focus on targeting civilian infrastructure or using psychological warfare to disrupt and demoralize the enemy, rather than engaging in conventional battles. Moreover, the ethical and legal implications of total war can vary significantly between state and non-state actors, affecting accountability and the perception of legitimacy in their actions.