Ethics, Security, and the War Machine

This book examines the justifiability of war-making and war-building, arguing that it is mistaken to believe that the justifiability of war-making is also sufficient to justify war-building. It explores the moral and social costs of militarization and evaluates whether these costs are worth bearing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

If pacifists are correct in their belief that war is always unjust, it follows that we should strive to eliminate the possibility and temptation of engaging in it. We should not build war-making capacity, and if we already have it, demilitarization or military abolition would seem to be the appropriate course of action. On the other hand, if war is sometimes justified, as many believe, it must be permissible to prepare for it by creating and maintaining a military establishment. However, this view that the justifiability of war-making is also sufficient to justify war-building is mistaken.

This book addresses questions of jus ante bellum, or justice before war. It explores the circumstances under which a polity can prepare for war by militarizing, when (if ever) and why (if at all) it is morally permissible to create and maintain the potential to wage war. It highlights the ways in which a civilian population compromises its own security by maintaining a permanent military establishment, examines the moral and social costs of militarization, and evaluates whether or not these costs are worth bearing.

The book begins by examining the concept of jus ante bellum, or justice before war. It explores the arguments for and against the justifiability of war, including the utilitarian and deontological perspectives. It also considers the role of international law and the United Nations in determining the legality of war.

Next, the book examines the moral and social costs of militarization. It explores the impact of military spending on economic development, social welfare, and human rights. It also considers the psychological effects of war on soldiers and civilians, including post-traumatic stress disorder and trauma.

The book also evaluates whether or not the costs of militarization are worth bearing. It considers the potential benefits of war, such as national security and the protection of human rights, as well as the risks and uncertainties associated with war. It also examines the historical record of war and the lessons learned from past conflicts.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive examination of the questions of jus ante bellum, or justice before war. It highlights the ways in which a civilian population compromises its own security by maintaining a permanent military establishment, explores the moral and social costs of militarization, and evaluates whether or not these costs are worth bearing. It is a valuable resource for policymakers, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the ethical and practical implications of war and peace.

Weight: 228g
Dimension: 216 x 135 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192887849