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