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A JUST WAR
Kathy Meacham, associate professor of philosophy, gives these guidelines for a "Just War."
Assumptions: War is evil. Necessary evil, under certain limited conditions. Human sinfulness (on all sides) means CAUTION and self-critical examination required.
Roots: Cicero; Augustine; Aquinas; Luther and Calvin; current.
JUST CAUSE
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Response to aggression - to an "imminent and grave" threat? (only defensive wars allowed)
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Just intent?
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Legitimate authority?
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Reasonable prospect of success?
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Last resort??
JUST MEANS
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Combatants, not civilians, targeted
- Right spirit (attitude of regret, not arrogance)
- Tradition (Respects international law conventions)
- No wanton violence or unnecessary brutality
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Prisoners treated with respect
JUST PROPORTIONALITY
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Proportionality of response fits original hostile act
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Outcome better than the violence that prompted it
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