Just War Theory in the western tradition will be analyzed by students. Students will present case studies from various engagements with an analysis from ethical perspectives. Students will also have to defend a position on the relevancy of JWT to modern warfare.
This advanced course challenges the graduate student to think ethically and philosophically about the nature of Just War Theory and reasons commonly accepted to go to war. Without this understanding, the students will not understand the complexity of military service.
Just War Theories were developed from religious thought and tradition.
Biblical faith is intended to interact with real-life complex issues. Core values are defined, and then through a process of reasoning, careful ethical application is made.
If those engaged in understanding or resolving Just War decisions, they will need to guide and shape their colleagues, institutions, and governments to act more ethically.
The military environment is a unique ministry context, and this course will help those involved with understanding and deciding national decisions to go to war to apply broader biblical principles in this challenging field.
A large dynamic in Just War Theory inolves resolving issues with competing and varied cultures. Just War Theory seeks to understand and resolve many of these cultural issues in a way that minimizes harm.
Ethics asks, what is the right thing to do? It is very practical.
Ethics cannot be applied without a case or situation. Learners would bring hisotrical case studies to the table for discussion.
