PHILOS 1B03 Lecture Notes - Jus Ad Bellum, Just War Theory, J. Walter Thompson

• School: McMaster University
• Department: Philosophy
• Course: PHILOS 1B03
• Professor: Stefan Rodde

Document Summary

Ethics and justice do not apply to the relations between states. No, war is neither just nor unjust: moral nihilism (realism) Justice requires an overarching authority, and there isn"t one in international arena. Relations between states are (or ought to be) governed by self-interest. Decisions are (or ought to be) governed only by self-interest. It seems that discussions of ethics and justice are relevant t- decision- making in and assessment of war. Jus ad bellum justice going to war. Jus in bello justice during war. A war is just if it satisfies conditions. These conditions are divided into three parts. Jab concerns the decisions to go to war. A state may only go to war for the right reason. A state must fight the war for the sake of the just cause. War can only be declared by a legitimate government. Costs include enemy causalities, destruction of property, etc. Decision to go to war must not be taken lightly.