Justice: A Problem for Military Ethics during Irregular War
Abstract
This monograph directly addresses the problem posed when considering the questions "Who says what right is?" or "Justice according to whom?" The relative nature of the term "justice" creates a problem for military ethics, particularly when soldiers try to determine what actions are morally acceptable when they are engaged in irregular warfare. This problem has prompted the development of a distinct way of thinking about "justice" over the course of history: the Just War Tradition. However, instead of encouraging ethical reflection, Just War Tradition has caused military ethics to drift toward legalism. What can stop this slide into strict formalism, where law eclipses ethics? The research conducted for this monograph has led the author to believe that the answer lies in a philosophical current called "personalism," which synthesizes the Aristotelian and Kantian positions. Simply stated, personalism promotes empathetic reflection prior to acting. Personalism does this by emphasizing the equal dignity of human beings, an idea that is particularly salient to irregular warfare. During irregular warfare, military actions are intended to win over the civilian population. Therefore, the value of adopting a personalist ethic is not only moral, but also pragmatic, guiding irregular warfare closer to success.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 22, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA484759
Entities
People
- John W. Bauer
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College