Sunday, May 25, 2014

Just War Theory 2 - Actions During War


Just Actions During War (jus in bello)
Last post, just reason for going to war were discussed. This post, I have listed the commonly accepted criteria for what constitutes just actions during that just war.

Distinction
Behavior during a just war should be led by the principle of distinction. Every reasonable effort must be made to protect civilians and target the opposing military.

Proportionality
Just war conduct should be governed by the principle of proportionality. An attack cannot be launched on a military objective in the knowledge that the incidental civilian injuries would be clearly excessive in relation to the anticipated military advantage (principle of proportionality).

Military necessity
Just war conduct should be limited to the  minimum force necessary. to ensure military defeat, not national destruction. This is to limit excessive and unnecessary death and destruction.

Fair treatment of prisoners of war
Enemy soldiers who surrendered or who are captured no longer pose a threat. It is therefore wrong to kill them, torture them or otherwise mistreat them.

No means
Soldiers may not use methods of warfare which are considered as evil, such as rape, torture, or forcing soldiers to fight against their own side. Luther says, "one must beware of sin and not violate wives and virgins."

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