The Ethics of War [Paperback]

A. J. Coates (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 15, 1997 | ISBN-10: 0719040469 | ISBN-13: 978-0719040467

Drawing on examples from the history of warfare from the crusades to the present day, "The ethics of war" explores the limits and possibilities of the moral regulation of war. While resisting the commonly held view that 'war is hell', A.J. Coates focuses on the tensions which exist between war and morality. The argument is conducted from a just war standpoint, though the moral ambiguity and mixed record of that tradition is acknowledge and the dangers which an exaggerated view of the justice or moral worth of war poses are underlined. In the first part, the broad image of the just war is compared with the competing images of realism, militarism and pacifism. In the second part, the moral issues associated both with the decision to go to war and with the manner in which war is conducted are explored. Was the allied decision to go to war in the Gulf premature? were economic sanctions a more effective and morally preferable option? was Britain justified in going to war over the Falklands? did the allied bombing of Germany in the Second World War constitute a war crime? should the IRA's claim to belligerent status be recognised? these questions and more are raised in this important book.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

A.J. Coates is Lecturer in Politics at the University of Reading

Product Details

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Manchester University Press (September 15, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0719040469
• ISBN-13: 978-0719040467
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.4 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.9 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,349,992 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

0 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Superb book on Just War, April 25, 2008

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CannyConsumer "CannyConsumer" (USA) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: The Ethics of War (Paperback)

This is an excellent introduction to the Just War tradition. Clearly written, balanced, well-referenced and authoritative. Very highly recommended.

4 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the most objective and informative books on war., September 24, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Ethics of War (Paperback)

This is one of the most insightful books that I have ever read. Even if I did not have to read this book for university, it would have been a great book just for an informative quest. The only part that is a wee bit difficult is the extr-short chp. 10 on double effect.