'Just War' Theory

Paper Summary:

This paper explains the concept of a just war and examines the theoretical aspect and historical aspect of the just war theory. The paper explains that the theoretical aspect is concerned with ethically justifying the engagement of war as well as the forms of warfare and that the historical aspect is concerned with the historical body of rules or mutual agreements existing in various wars across the ages. The paper also explains that the idea of a just war has historical precedent and can be seen as far back as biblical times and extends down through the Middle Ages and the time of Shakespeare.

From the Paper:

"The idea of a "just war" is a conundrum. How can one group of people consider their actions "right" or "just" to apply military force against a another group. When can one group's actions, which will create devastation, economic difficulty, and death to thousands of people, be considered "right?" In a civilized society, the concept of a "just war" has become the centerpiece of many discussions, and has acted as a gate keeper, restraining hawkish tendencies of nations who pride themselves in freedom, and individual liberty. In order for a nation to engage in an activity which creates harm for another group, there must be a justifiable reason."

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