Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Is war ethical?
Position1 of 2›

Yes, War is ethical in certain circumstances

This position holds that war is ethical in certain circumstances. Echoing just-war thinking, it argues war can be justified when it is the only means to achieve positive change—provided the cause is morally righteous and the response stays proportional to the original aggression.

Supporting arguments · 2

  1. War is ethical if the response is proportional to the initial act of aggression
    If actions taken in a war are reasonable responses to real or perceived aggression, then the war is ethical. It is being waged with intentions that are not meant to cause unnecessary casualties.
  2. War is ethical if the reason behind the war is morally righteous
    If all other peaceful options have been tried and have failed, then a war may be an ethical next step. The war is only ethical if the reason for going to war is virtuous.