Just War Theory

?
  • Created by: Speeden
  • Created on: 14-06-16 15:31

Just War Theory

Advantages

  • Defines conditions under which violence may be used- E.g Last Resort, Proportionality, Discrimination.
  • Flexible and changes with time, also combines many different opinions from philosophers over many centuries.
  • Recognises the necessity of actions against an aggressor.
  • Allows defense for the defenseless.

Disadvantages

  • Unrealistic as the strongest side will win
  • Terrorism doesn't follow JWT and demands a different approach, E.g Afghanistan.
  • Modern warfare techniques such as WMD do not follow JWT.
  • Allows violence but morality would say that deliberate violence is not permitted.

Evaluation

Overall, the JWT is ineffective as it still permits killing to occur and innocent civilians can often be involved in the violence, however the JWT prevents an even greater evil, therefore this makes it justifiable. It also may not work under today's warfare techniques and threat from terrorism, which could make it outdated. 

Comments

No comments have yet been made

Similar Religious Studies resources:

See all Religious Studies resources »See all Ethics resources »