Single Idea 23594

[catalogued under 25. Social Practice / E. Policies / 1. War / a. Just wars]

Full Idea

Wars can be unjust despite having a just cause, because they are not actually needed, or they will cause excessive harm, or they also pursue some unjust causes.

Gist of Idea

Wars can be unjust, despite a just cause, if they are unnecessary or excessive or of mixed cause

Source

Jeff McMahan (Killing in War [2009], 1.1)

Book Reference

McMahan,Jeff: 'Killing in War' [OUP 2009], p.5


A Reaction

[compressed] The point is that older writers often think that a 'just cause' is sufficient. He is obviously right.