"What does the increasing use of private security forces mean for governments? For individuals? Armies Without States offers a comprehensive analysis of the varieties, causes, and consequences of this growing phenomenon.".

"Ranging from the international to the subnational level and from the use of mercenaries by private parties to the government outsourcing of military operations, Mandel reveals emerging trends and discovers parallels among security privatization situations in all parts of the world. Brief case studies illustrate the broader themes discussed.

The book concludes with an assessment of the complexities surrounding responses to security privatization - and an exploration of when, and whether, it should be promoted rather than prevented."--BOOK JACKET.