Being in the Just War

When debating upon how to react to new styles of warfare in the 21stcentury, scholars and political leaders often invoke the language of the justwar doctrine. However, while terms such as 'last resort' and 'legitimate authority'are frequently used, their meaning is often vague or improperly used.In what ways can we make the terminology of just war more concrete andmeaningful? This study examines the philosophical structure of the just wartradition, in particular focusing on its origins. Through an analysis of theontological presuppositions of Augustine’s arguments on just war, this studyexplains some of the fundamental assumptions necessary for the just wardoctrine to remain coherent. By investigating contemporary attempts toaddress morality in warfare, this study also explains why major schools ofthought (realism, international law, liberalism) fail in this endevour. This bookwill be of use to scholars of political theory, international relations, andintellectual history. It will also prove useful to researchers who focus politicaltheology, ethics in warfare, and conflict studies.