The English writer and actor Rupert Everett, who is renowned for his incisive humor and social critique, had a strong opinion regarding the nature of war. He attacks the contemporary strategy for fighting wars as being impersonal and devoid of true bravery or dedication.

Everett's assertion illustrates a historical contrast with past combat periods when soldiers were supposed to confront their adversaries head-on and show courage in confined spaces. During these times, it was recognized that fighting a war required a great deal of physical bravery and personal risk. As part of their duty, soldiers would face the enemy head-on and frequently encounter life-threatening circumstances.

However, Everett notes that technological advancements have caused a significant shift in modern warfare. High-altitude flying or remote drone operations are frequently used in today's conflicts to reduce the risks to one side's soldiers. According to Everett, this shift has resulted in a lack of the spirit of sacrifice that marked previous military conflicts as well as actual engagement.

Since such behavior lacks the fundamental qualities typically associated with warfare—courage, bravery, and a willingness to face danger—he contends that if this is how nations choose to conduct wars, there may be no purpose to them at all. According to Everett, war should be a test of one's strength and resolve rather than a means of avoiding it.

According to Everett, the ideal warrior would be like a lion facing its prey with courage and dignity, whereas contemporary combat tactics are like a child playing hide-and-seek from their own responsibilities. His critique raises concerns about whether these shifts compromise the core of what it means to fight in war and serves as a reminder of how cultural values surrounding conflict have changed over time.

Everett's remarks push both military strategists and civilians to think about the ethical ramifications of contemporary warfare and whether avoiding risk compromises the very honor and purpose that are typically connected to military service.