The Just War Theory Flashcards
What is the just war theory
A largely Christian philosophy that attempts to reconcile three things
What are the three things the JWT tries to reconcile?
1) taking life is seriously wrong
2) states have a duty to defend their citizens and defend justice
3) protecting innocent human life and defending important moral values sometimes require willingness to use force or violence
What does the JWT provide?
A guide to the right way for states to act in potential conflict situations
Who does the JWT apply to?
Only to states
Not individuals
What’s the JWT intended for?
To prevent Wars
A war is permissible because?
It’s a lesser evil, but it’s still an evil
What 3 aspects does the JWT consider?
- jus ad bellum
- jus in bello
- jus post bellum
What’s jus ad bellum?
The just nature of the reasoning and decision to take part in a war
Aspects of jus ad bellum to go into war?
1) just cause
2) right intention
3) proper authority and public declaration
4) last resort
5) probability of success
6) proportionality
7) agreed by the UN
What’s jus in bello?
The just nature of conduct during the war once it begins
Aspects of jus in bello?
1) obey all international laws in weapons prohibition
2) discrimination and non-combatant immunity
3) proportionality
4) benevolent quarantine for prisoners of war
What’s jus post bellum?
1) restoring human rights
2) distinguishing between innocents and guilty
3) public agreement and proclamation
4) giving war criminals fair trails
5) giving country opportunity to reform
