Walzer begins by distinguishing between two different kinds of war: defensive and offensive. Defensive wars are fought in self-defense, in order to protect one’s own country or people from aggression. Offensive wars, on the other hand, are fought for the purpose of conquest or control.
Walzer argues that defensive wars are always just, while offensive wars can be either just or unjust. To determine whether an offensive war is just or unjust, one must consider its purpose or motivation. If the purpose of the war is to further a just cause – such as liberating an oppressed people from tyranny – then it may be just. However, if the purpose of the war is selfish or greedy – such as annexing another country’s territory – then it is unjust.
In addition to looking at the purpose of a war, one must also consider its means or methods. Even a war fought for a just cause can be unjust if it employs methods that are indiscriminate or excessively destructive – such as bombing civilian targets. Conversely, even an offensive war fought for an unjust cause can be just if it employs restrained and discriminate methods – such as targeting only military targets.
Walzer’s framework provides a way to think about the morality of armed conflict that takes into account both the motives and means of warfare. While his discussion is focused on traditional interstate warfare, his principles can also be applied to other kinds of violence, such as civil wars and terrorist attacks.
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Best Michael Walzer Just And Unjust Wars Guidance
[Michael Walzer] Just and Unjust Wars: A Moral Argument with Historical Illustrations
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Common Questions on [Michael Walzer] Just and Unjust Wars: A Moral Argument with Historical Illustrations
• 1What does Michael Walzer claim about the motives for war?Walzer claims that there are three primary motives for war: self-defense, defense of others, and offense.
•2What is the difference between a “just” and an “unjust” war according to Walzer?
A just war is one that is fought for a legitimate purpose, while an unjust war is one that is fought for an illegitimate purpose.
•3What criteria must be met in order for a war to be considered “just”?
In order for a war to be considered just, it must be fought for a legitimate purpose, and it must be fought in accordance with the principles of proportionality and discrimination.
•4What are some examples of “unjust” wars that Walzer mentions in his book?
Walzer gives several examples of “unjust” wars, including the Crusades, the War of 1812, and the American Civil War.
•5What does Walzer say about the use of force in international relations?
Walzer believes that the use of force in international relations is generally justified, but
Why We Like This
1. A clear and concise moral argument for Just Wars, with historical illustrations to back up the claims.
2. A detailed analysis of the principles of Just War theory and how they can be applied to modern day conflicts.
3. An examination of the role of the individual in wartime, and how to make moral choices in the face of violence.
4. A thought provoking exploration of the complexities of war and its impact on both those who fight and those who don’t.
5. A powerful and persuasive argument for why Just Wars are essential to preserving human dignity and justice.
Just and Unjust Wars: A Moral Argument with Historical Illustrations Michael Walzer – Paperback
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The book Just and Unjust Wars: A Moral Argument with Historical Illustrations by Michael Walzer is a comprehensive guide to the history, theory, and ethics of warfare. Walzer argue that wars can be morally justified if they meet certain criteria, such as being fought in self-defense or to protect the innocent. He also discusses the concept of “dirty hands,” or the idea that individuals who fight in wars may have to do things that are morally reprehensible in order to achieve victory. This is a complex and thought-provoking book that will leave readers with a greater understanding of the moral complexities of warfare.
Common Questions on Just and Unjust Wars: A Moral Argument with Historical Illustrations Michael Walzer – Paperback
• What is the main argument of Just and Unjust Wars?The main argument of Just and Unjust Wars is that there is such a thing as a just war, and that this just war can be fought for a number of reasons. Walzer outlines several different criteria that must be met in order for a war to be just, and he provides historical examples to illustrate his points.
Why We Like This
1. A detailed exploration of the morality of war, from one of the world’s leading moral philosophers.
2. A wide ranging historical survey, from the ancient world to the present day.
3. A provocative challenge to traditional Just War thinking.
4. A stimulating and thought provoking work, essential reading for anyone interested in the ethics of war.
5. A classic work, which has been influential in shaping modern debates on the ethics of war.
Just and Unjust Wars: A Moral Argument with Historical Illustrations
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When discussing the justification of war, people will often bring up the idea of a “just war.” But what exactly is a just war? And how does one go about determining whether or not a war is just?
There are a few different criteria that must be met in order for a war to be considered just. First, the war must be fought for a good and just cause. The war must also be fought with the right intentions – that is, the intention of restoring peace and justice, not of harming or conquering others. Additionally, all possible measures must be taken to ensure that civilians are not harmed during the conflict, and that the war is fought as humanely as possible. Finally, there must be a reasonable chance of success – the war should not be entered into lightly, as it is a serious and costly undertaking.
Of course, even if all of these criteria are met, some will still argue that war is never justified. This is a valid perspective, and one that deserves consideration. However, I believe that there are certain situations in which war is the only course of action available, and in these cases, war can be a just and moral endeavor.
Throughout history, there have been many examples of just wars. One notable example
Common Questions on Just and Unjust Wars: A Moral Argument with Historical Illustrations
Why We Like This
1. A clear and concise moral argument for Just War theory
2. Historical illustrations from a variety of conflicts
3. A comprehensive analysis of the ethical issues involved in warfare
4. A thought provoking exploration of the nature of violence
5. A challenging examination of the role of conscience in wartime
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Thick and Thin: Moral Argument at Home and Abroad (Frank M. Covey, Jr., Loyola Lectures in Political Analysis)
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Common Questions on Thick and Thin: Moral Argument at Home and Abroad (Frank M. Covey, Jr., Loyola Lectures in Political Analysis)
• What is the difference between a thick and a thin moral argument?A thick moral argument is one that is based on a comprehensive understanding of the relevant facts and values, while a thin moral argument is one that is based on a limited understanding of the relevant facts and values.
• What are some of the benefits of making a thick moral argument?
Some benefits of making a thick moral argument include that it can lead to a more nuanced and sophisticated understanding of the issue at hand, and can also help to build bridges between different sides of an issue.
• What are some of the challenges of making a thick moral argument?
Some challenges of making a thick moral argument include that it can be time-consuming and requires a deep understanding of the relevant facts and values. Additionally, thick moral arguments can sometimes be seen as hijacked by special interests.
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Benefits of Michael Walzer Just And Unjust Wars
The just war theory is a set of criteria that determine whether going to war is morally justified. Although there is no single definition of what qualifies as a just war, the theory typically outlines three conditions that must be met:
There must be a clear and imminent threat to security or interests. War should only be used as a last resort after all other options have been exhausted. The use of force must be proportional to the threat posed and reasonably likely to achieve its objectives.
Just war theory provides a framework for thinking about when it is appropriate to go to war, but it does not necessarily provide clear guidance in specific cases. Critics argue that the conditions required for a just war are often impossible to meet in practice, making the theory impractical and obsolete.
Buying Guide for Best Michael Walzer Just And Unjust Wars
When looking for the best book on Michael Walzer’s Just and Unjust Wars, it is important to consider what you hope to get out of the book. If you are looking for a thorough analysis of Walzer’s political philosophy, then you should look for a book that provides that. However, if you are simply looking for an introduction to his thought or a more general overview of the principles of just war theory, then there are a number of books that can provide that. In either case, it is also worth considering books that bring Walzer’s thought into conversation with other major thinkers in the field, as this can help to contextualize and deepen your understanding of his work.
When it comes to finding the best book on Michael Walzer’s Just and Unjust Wars, there is no shortage of options. Some recommended titles include:
Just and Unjust Wars: A Moral Argument with Historical Illustrations by Michael Walzer – This is the classic text by Walzer on just war theory, and remains one of the most comprehensive and detailed treatments of the subject.
On War by Carl von Clausewitz – While not specifically focused on just war theory, Clausewitz’s seminal work on warfare provides a helpful backdrop against which to understand Walzer’s thought.
The Ethics of War: Classic and Contemporary Readings edited by Larry May – This anthology includes chapters from both classic works in just war theory (such as those by Thomas Aquinas and Hugo Grotius) as well as more contemporary ones (including those by Carol Cohn and Jean Bethke Elshtain), making it ideal for readers who want to explore the history of the topic.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the main principles of Just War theory?
There are three main principles of Just War theory: jus ad bellum, jus in bello, and jus post bellum. Jus ad bellum refers to the justice of going to war, and requires that a war be declared for a just cause, with the right intentions, and only as a last resort. Jus in bello refers to the justice of waging war, and requires that war be fought with proportionality and discrimination. Jus post bellum refers to the justice of post-war peace settlements, and requires that defeated aggressors be given a chance to rebuild.
When is it morally permissible to go to war?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual circumstances and beliefs of those involved. Some people may believe that war is always morally wrong, while others may believe that it can be justified in some cases.
How should we balance the need to protect civilians with the need to prosecute a war?
There is no one answer to this question. Each situation is unique and must be evaluated on its own merits.
What are the responsibilities of governments to their citizens during wartime?
The responsibilities of governments to their citizens during wartime include protecting their citizens from enemy attacks, providing essential services, and maintaining order.
Conclusion
Michael Walzer’s Just and Unjust Wars offers a compelling moral framework for evaluating the use of force. His work is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the ethical complexities of warfare. I believe that Just and Unjust Wars should be required reading for all students of military ethics. It is the best book on the subject, and it will help you make sense of the complex issues involved in warfare.