Ethics of War in Iraq

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the argument that the current Iraq war involves important business ethics issues that take the gloss off the American military "victory", supposedly achieved for "Iraqi freedom." It looks at how the attack was justified for more than the need to destroy "Weapons of mass destruction", etc., and how one of the main reasons was an American desire to control a region with the second largest proven oil reserves in the world.

From the Paper:

"Certain events during the current war have also reinforced the belief that business interests are more important to the war planners than any "humanitarian" or "ethical" consideration. Take, for example, the fact that more than 1000 oil wells in Iraq were promptly "secured" and the only building in Baghdad considered worthy of protection by the US marines from the frenzied looting was the oil ministry building. They were silent spectators to the looting and pillaging of precious libraries, hospitals and even renowned Baghdad Museum containing priceless treasures some dating back to 7000 years. The "excuse" offered by Rumsfeld for failing to prevent looting was: "Freedom's untidy. And free people are free to make mistakes and commit crimes." (Quoted by Scheer, April 15, 2003) Give us a break, Mr. Rumsfeld!"

More papers on Ethics of War in Iraq:

• Analytical Essay # 104761 : "Philosophy of War"
• Analytical Essay # 148292 : "Counterinsurgency in Iraq and Afghanistan"
• Term Paper # 61286 : "Media and the War in the Middle East"

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