How does morality impact the principles of just war, particularly with regard to jus in bello (conduct of war). This week we will look at the conduct of war in terms of morality and how it is viewed by pacifists. We’ll also consider whether or not a preventive war can ever be just. Post ONE highly responsive post of at least 300 words by Friday night on one of this week’s three topics. You do not need to respond to classmates for this posting because of the Midterm Exam.
Morality
Based on this week’s readings, when is it okay to ignore morality? Is it ever okay? How does morality impact the principles of just war, particularly with regard to jus in bello (conduct of war)? What is the “just soldier’s dilemma” discussed in the article by Harbour? Can the actions of soldiers be considered just in what is considered an unjust war? What about the other way around? If a war is considered just, does this mean the conduct of the war is also just? How did morality play into the past conflicts mentioned in our readings?
Share some thoughts on one or two of these questions to get some discussion started. Don’t try covering all questions; leave something for others to add.
Preventive Wars
What do our readings suggest about preventive wars? Can they ever satisfy just war principles?
Let others add their thoughts.
Christian Nonviolence and Pacifism
What is meant by Christian nonviolence and by pacifism? Are they the same thing? Why or why not? How do these groups of people view war and the conduct of war?
Any thoughts on Koontz’ question about why we spend so much time focusing on whether or not we can achieve a just war, but little time on whether or not we can maintain/achieve a “just peace”? What did he mean by that?
Share some thoughts on just one question and leave some for others to cover.
