The ethical and moral justifications of the "Just War Theory" have been discussed continuously for several years. The ethical issue has created two sides of opposing views, those who view "Just War" as ethical and those who view it as unethical. Even today, the "Just War" theory still creates passionate debates among philosophers and religious leaders as well as throughout the public. Some proponents of Just War theory argue that it brings peace and justice, while those opposing just war theory note the damages and even instability are created by wars. However, both sides agree that war is necessary where peace can not be achieved by peaceful means. In the recent past, the war in Iraq that was started by the U.S and its allies has ignited a passionate debate over if this war is a just war. To further investigate these opposing viewpoints, this position paper will attempt to explain the issue by looking at both sides of the issue. Various positions on both sides will be highlighted, and then a position will arrived at basing on the findings of both sides. Lastly, this paper will conclude in favor of just war.
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In any debate over war, it’s impossible for the church or the mass to voice one view point on the issue. This is because even the Bible itself has two opposing aspects on the issue. On one side, the Bible teaches Christians that rulers who pursue their own individual goals against the people wish sin against the will of God, and in such a situation other world rulers are supposed to at times enforce peace even through force, though under Gods guidelines. But, on the side, God wishes man to live peaceful without fighting and killing each other. Thus all Christians exonerate some level of coercion, however, they basically they are peaceful.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Statement of Fact
- War brings justice
- War ensures peace
- War is a moral obligation
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This position paper aims to analyze the ethical and moral justification of Just War theory by examining both sides of the debate. The paper explores the arguments presented by proponents and opponents of Just War theory, highlighting various positions and ultimately arriving at a conclusion in favor of Just War.
- The ethical and moral justification of Just War theory
- The role of war in achieving peace and justice
- The challenges and controversies surrounding Just War theory
- The importance of right intent and moral obligation in war
- The relationship between Just War theory and Christian teachings
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: The introduction sets the stage for the debate surrounding Just War theory, highlighting the opposing viewpoints and the relevance of the issue in contemporary times. The paper's purpose and approach are outlined.
- Statement of Fact: This section explores the conflicting views on war presented in the Bible, emphasizing the tension between the use of force and the pursuit of peace. It introduces the concept of Just War theory as a reconciliation of these conflicting perspectives.
- War brings justice: This chapter examines the arguments of those who believe war can restore justice when carried out by legitimate authorities. It discusses the delegation of power from God to rulers, the role of wise counsel, and the importance of soldierly determination in conducting a just war.
- War ensures peace: This section delves into the perspective that war can sometimes be necessary to achieve a just cause and ensure peace. It references biblical examples of wars fought for just causes, highlighting the argument that God sometimes sanctions war to bring about peace.
- War is a moral obligation: This chapter explores the argument that war, when waged with the right moral obligation, can be a means of achieving a just peace. It emphasizes the importance of complete justice, the necessity of seeking peace through peaceful means when possible, and the need for consistency and character in assessing the intent behind war.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
Just War theory, peace, justice, war, ethical justification, moral obligation, Christian teachings, peace, coercion, legitimate authority, right intent, complete justice, peace, diplomacy, opposition to war, Bible, conflict, ethics, morality.
- Quote paper
- Ellen Garcia (Author), 2013, Just War Theory, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/271550
