"Analytically rigorous and methodologically sound, Hackett's work is a precious contribution to the literature on irregular war. Theorizing, especially in social studies, is not for the faint-hearted, but Hackett accomplishes that mission with grace and humility."-Bilal Y. Saab, former senior advisor in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, author of Rebuilding Arab Defense
"If Jonathan Hackett's Theory of Irregular War had been available in the early 2000s, we might have taken far more thoughtful approaches in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Libya, and the many other conflicts of the post-9/11 era. Hackett weaves together his ground-up experience with a ruthless academic critique of contemporary theory and practice in what will surely be essential reading for the inevitable irregular wars to come."-Dr. Ben Connable, author of How Insurgencies End
"Jonathan Hackett advances a provocative theory of irregular warfare in this brilliantly structured, and rigorously researched book. His firsthand experiences in fighting irregular wars coupled with his scholarly excellence results in an elegant, engaging, and convincing argument. This book should transform how scholars study irregular wars and how practitioners prepare for it."-Dr. Sandor Fabian, chair of engagements at the Irregular Warfare Center.
"Jonathan Hackett has written a riveting case study of irregular warfare, absolutely breathtaking in its research depth."-Owen West, former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations/Low Intensity Conflict