Shweik,

Wanker is quaint and from the other side of the Pond. Actually it could be liberally applied to almost anyone in politics, religion or popular music.

I have been called by this epithet by someone who didn't have a legitimate rebuttal to
a discussion on Iraq.

It intimates a lack of regard for others, hence, the idea of autoeroticism at the expense of sharing intimacy.

As a participant in Shweikian endeavors in the military farce, you are undoubtably aware of its practice among frustrated warriors.

At least unless abnormally abused, a wanker will not produce a canker.