justifications of war Flashcards
how is alliances between countries a justification for war?
is an alliance is attacked the others in the alliance are obligated to provide military assistance. sometimes alliances may force nations to participate in conflicts they dont fully agree with which compromises thier moral values. Countries may have to give up thier resources.
e. g NATO if any country is attacked, all the alliances must provide assistance.
how is stopping or preventing oppression a justification for war?
oppression means unfair treatment to people usually in power. It can be discrimination violence or a basic denial of rights. Going to war to prevent oppression also raises moral issues causing loss of life destruction and displacement
e.g During WW1 the allies fought against nazi Germany which had been committng genocide against jews.
how is self defense a justification for war?
is the act of protecting ones self or interest from harm or threat. if a nation is attacked or threatened it may be justified to use military force to protect itself
e.g US entry into ww2 was promoted by yhe Japanese attack on pearl harbor
how is Christianity as a religious viewpoint a justification for war?
there are alot of Christian viewpoints because there are over 2B Christians.
some are completely against and some are pacifists
reasons for Christian pacifism:
- they follow the commandment “do not kill”
- based on the stories about jesus they believe jesus was pacifist, making them also want to be pacifist
- some quotes from Jesus back up this view “if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also”
Christian pacifists couldn’t go to war because thier moral Beleifs wouldnt let them.
sometimes Christians believe it is less bad not going to war for example if countries did not step up and fight the nazis in ww2 the world would be in a worse position
a quote that backs up going to war :
“ For the lord your god is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.”
e.g christian group called the quakers which are focused on peace and equality
How is humanism a non religious viewpoint on justifications for war?
humanists believe we should treat otheres with respect and compassion. meaning they oppose war. they believe wars can be solves using negotiatation and peace. They believe war creates more problems than it solves. They believe in the importance of education and cultural exchange. promoting these values can help prevent conflicts. they believe war must be a last resort.
e.g peace pledge union is a humanist group who are pacifist and believe war is not a justifiable solution to conflicts.
