Just And Unjust Wars by Michael Walzer
  • 1. In 'Just and Unjust Wars', Michael Walzer presents a compelling philosophical analysis of the moral implications of warfare, provoking readers to grapple with the ethical distinctions between just and unjust conflicts. First published in 1977, the book is renowned for its rigorous examination of the principles of just war theory, which explores the justification for going to war (jus ad bellum) and the moral conduct during war (jus in bello). Walzer argues that wars can be considered just if they are fought for defense against aggression or to protect innocent lives, emphasizing the importance of legitimacy and the need for a just cause. He also highlights the moral complexities involved in warfare, particularly regarding civilian casualties and the rules of engagement, stressing that even in war, ethical standards should be upheld. By analyzing historical case studies and philosophical perspectives, Walzer challenges the reader to reflect on the human cost of war and the responsibilities of states and individuals in both just and unjust situations. The book is not only a theoretical treatise but also a practical guide for understanding the ethics of contemporary conflicts, making it an essential read for scholars, military professionals, and anyone interested in the moral dimensions of war.

    According to Walzer, what justifies going to war?
A) Just cause
B) Political opportunity
C) Economic advantage
D) Military superiority
  • 2. What does jus in bello refer to?
A) Justice in peace treaties
B) Justice of starting war
C) Justice in conduct during war
D) Justice for victors
  • 3. What is the principle of double effect?
A) Accepting unintended civilian casualties if proportional
B) Two simultaneous war objectives
C) Doubling military force for decisive victory
D) Double punishment for war crimes
  • 4. What does Walzer mean by 'aggression'?
A) Any military action
B) Violation of territorial integrity and political sovereignty
C) Diplomatic pressure
D) Economic sanctions
  • 5. What is the 'domestic analogy' in Walzer's theory?
A) Comparing international aggression to domestic crime
B) Analogizing armies to police forces
C) Comparing treaties to contracts
D) Comparing war to family disputes
  • 6. What role does 'last resort' play in just war theory?
A) War must end quickly
B) Final battle must be decisive
C) War must be the final option after exhausting alternatives
D) Peace must be permanent after war
  • 7. What is 'proportionality' in jus ad bellum?
A) Expected benefits must outweigh anticipated costs
B) Equal military forces
C) Symmetrical destruction
D) Balanced casualties
  • 8. What is the 'war convention' according to Walzer?
A) Military alliance agreement
B) Peace treaty format
C) Set of rules governing war conduct
D) War declaration procedure
  • 9. What is Walzer's view on nuclear weapons?
A) Their use is almost always immoral
B) Moral if used against military targets
C) Essential for national defense
D) Justified in preventive strikes
  • 10. What is 'reprisal' in Walzer's discussion?
A) Weapons testing
B) Peace negotiation tactic
C) Retaliatory violation of war conventions
D) Military training exercise
  • 11. What is the 'sliding scale' argument Walzer discusses?
A) More justice in cause permits more violence
B) Military technology progression
C) War costs increase over time
D) Escalating peace terms
  • 12. What does Walzer mean by 'collective responsibility'?
A) Individual guilt for group actions
B) Military chain of command
C) International criminal liability
D) Community shares responsibility for state actions
  • 13. What is 'necessity' in war according to Walzer?
A) Civilian targets are acceptable
B) Only necessary military actions are permitted
C) Unlimited force is justified
D) Total war is required
  • 14. What does Walzer argue about terrorism?
A) Acceptable against oppressive regimes
B) Moral if for religious causes
C) Deliberate targeting of civilians is always wrong
D) Justified for national liberation
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