"Use of Weapons" is a science fiction novel by author Iain M. Banks, part of the Culture series. The story follows a mercenary named Zakalwe as he navigates complex moral dilemmas while working for the Culture’s Contact division. The narrative is non-linear, alternating between Zakalwe's past and present, revealing his troubled history and the impact of his actions. The novel explores themes of war, ethics, and the consequences of violence. It raises questions about the justification of actions in the name of a greater good, highlighting the personal and societal costs of conflict.