Religion, Peace and Conflict Flashcards
What is forgiveness?
A way of putting the past behind someone in light of making a better future
What can peace be seen as?
The GOAL of conflict, the END of conflict and a time where there is NO conflict
What is reconciliation?
Reconciliation is the RESTORATION OF FRIENDLY RELATIONS, and involves forgiveness
What is Justice?
Justice is the idea of the even thing, and what is most deserved for everyone
What is violence?
Violence is hurt, damage and destructive energy
When is justice justified?
Self defence, protection of others, utilitarianism
Which scholar argued in favour of self defence?
Palmer VR. - “it is both good law and good sense that a man who is attacked may defend himself. It is both a good law and good sense that he may do, but may only do what is necessary.”
Why is self defence such a compelling argument in favour of violence?
Because one is morally entitled to defend themselves from having harm inflicted upon oneself. For this reason, it has also been a COMMON LAW DEFENCE.
Someone’s desire to commit an act of violence against you can never outweigh the your own desire to stay safe and to protect yourself, thus self defence is a just form of violence.
Terrorism
Acts that are intended to cause death or harm to civilians with the purpose of intimidating an government or organisation
Just War Theory
A just war is one which is declared for right and noble reasons and fought in a certain way.
First developed my THOMAS AQUINAS
Just war theory - Jus ad Bellum
War must have a just cause, eg.
- self defence
War must be declared and controlled by a proper authority, such as the ruler
War must be fought to promote good or avoid evil, with the AIM OF RESTORING PEACE and JUSTICE
Just war theory - Jus in Bello
War must be a LAST RESORT
Fought with proportionality, civilians should be protected
The good achieved must be greater than the evil which led to the war
Holy war
A war waged in support of a religious cause, eg. Crusades
Argument for WMDs
Possession keeps peace, fear of what might happen, etc
Deterrence
Arguments against WMDs
Destructive power is immense and long lasting
Unbelievably destructive, cannot take the risk
No effective control or protection against them, unstoppable force
