The Theory and History of Mimicry in Conflict

Abstract

Abstract Deceptive identity mimicry is a widespread, consequential, and understudied feature of conflict. It is used by spies to collect intelligence, by attackers to inflict harm, and by the besieged and hunted to escape. Groups too, pass off as other groups to besmirch or exploit their reputation. It is a tool of war no less potent than physical weapons or fortifications, yet it has received little attention in the literature of conflict. This chapter introduces the topic of mimicry in war and sets the stage for the other contributions to this volume. We explain what identity mimicry is, why it is worth studying, and how it relates to other forms of deception. We lay out a conceptual and theoretical framework for understanding its dynamics and provide an overview of wartime mimicry through history, showing that it is likely as old as war itself.