Such incidents raise debate around the Ethics of War leading to the question whether a war is ever justified.
- According to Tolstoyan view war is a crime under all circumstances.
- Whereas, ‘Just War’ theory presumes that there are legitimate uses of war under certain circumstance (refer to the box in the end)
Key Stakeholders involved in a war and their interest
- Countries: Fulfilling the objective of war like resolving territorial disputes.
- Citizens: Desire for end of war and desire to fulfil national interest.
- Soldiers: Defending their country and its interests.
- Industries, and Financial Institutions: Disruptions in supply chains, loss of investments, etc.
- International community: Provide humanitarian aid, diplomatic support, or engage in peacekeeping efforts
Ethical issues associated with war
- Loss of human life including civilians, women and children
- Degradation of Moral Equality by dehumanization of the enemy, Prisoners of War, etc.
- Moral Equality is the belief that all people are of equal worth and are entitled to equal respect.
- War Crimes and Atrocities, including genocide, and summary execution.
- Fear of arms race and use of weapons of mass destruction
Just War Theory
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