The Avoidance of Weakness and the Search for Strength: "WE will look weak"

The avoidance of the appearance of weakness, and the complementary search for the appearance of strength, are belligerent behavior patterns which both have psychological and practical explanations. The explanations themselves are in turn founded on natural and perhaps unavoidable beliefs about the avoidance of harm or embarrassment, and the desirability of presenting a good image, and achieving security. It should perhaps be accepted, therefore, that the avoidance of the appearance of weakness is based on a normal — and even sensible — belligerent belief structure which may not only be beyond the control of third parties, but may be beyond the control of the belligerents themselves. As with any behavior, outside agents may impinge on the process, but there is nevertheless a marked tendency for belligerents to behave in such a way as to avoid appearing weak. One major consequence of appearing weak is that the perceived weakness may result in increased enemy demands and efforts to win the war.