The Ethics of War and Peace Revisited

This collection explores the evolving ethical frameworks surrounding military force, examining concepts like humanitarian intervention and just war, while questioning the meaning of victory in today's complex conflicts.

The Ethics of War and Peace Revisited delves into the complex questions surrounding the use of military force in the modern era. It addresses fundamental issues such as the decision-making processes involved in engaging in or abstaining from conflict, the moral implications of who is authorized to take lives, and whether existing frameworks for justifying military action remain relevant today. With the shifting dynamics of the post-Cold War and post-9/11 landscapes, the book encourages readers to reconsider the concepts of sovereignty and victory in contemporary warfare.

The essays compiled in this volume explore the evolving nature of armed conflict, emphasizing that the norms governing sovereignty are increasingly contested and fragmented. Many states struggle to maintain control over their territories, facing challenges from violent non-state actors. This reality raises critical questions about humanitarian intervention, preventive war, and the just war theory, which serve as lenses through which decisions about military action are made. The contributors critically assess these frameworks, probing their effectiveness and potential flaws in addressing today's ethical dilemmas.

Ultimately, The Ethics of War and Peace Revisited invites readers to reflect on the purpose of warfare in a world where victory can often feel elusive. By examining the ethical dimensions of conflict, the book serves as an essential resource for scholars and practitioners alike, seeking to understand the implications of modern warfare and the moral responsibilities that come with it.