The Morality of Defensive Force

The morality of defensive force is explored in Jonathan Quong's book, providing an original philosophical account of the central moral principles that should regulate its use. He argues that self-defense can sometimes be justified on the basis of an agent-relative prerogative to give greater weight to one's own life and interests and develops a novel conception of individual rights against harm. The book concludes with Quong's extended defense of the means principle, which prohibits harmfully using other persons' bodies or other rightful property unless those persons are duty bound to permit this use or have otherwise waived their claims against such use.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

When is it morally permissible to engage in self-defense or the defense of others?

Jonathan Quong delves into a comprehensive exploration of the morality of defensive force in his book, offering an innovative philosophical framework to govern its application. To fully comprehend the ethics of defensive force, he argues, we must delve into deeper questions regarding its compatibility with a broader understanding of justice and moral rights.

In developing his stance, Quong presents novel perspectives on liability, proportionality, and necessity. He challenges the prevailing view in the literature by advocating that self-defense can sometimes be justified based on an agent-relative prerogative to prioritize one's own life and interests. This perspective introduces a fresh dimension to the discussion.

Furthermore, Quong develops a novel conception of individual rights against harm. Contrary to some who argue that our rights against harm are fact-relative, he posits that our rights against being harmed by others must, in certain respects, be sensitive to the evidence that others can reasonably be expected to possess. This nuanced approach adds depth to our understanding of moral obligations.

The book concludes with Quong's robust defense of the means principle, a fundamental principle that prohibits the harmful use of other persons' bodies or other rightful property unless those persons are duty-bound to permit this use or have otherwise waived their claims against such use. This principle underscores the importance of respecting the autonomy and rights of others.

In summary, Jonathan Quong's book provides a thought-provoking exploration of the morality of defensive force, challenging conventional perspectives and offering innovative insights. By examining the relationship between defensive force, justice, and moral rights, Quong contributes to our understanding of when it is morally permissible to engage in self-defense or the defense of others.

Weight: 336g
Dimension: 232 x 152 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192883315