Just War Theory: A-Level Revision

Just War Theory: A-Level Revision

AQA Religious Studies A-Level Year 13 Revision Session Philosophy & Ethics

Learning Objectives

Understand the historical development of Just War Theory Analyze the criteria for jus ad bellum (right to war) Evaluate jus in bello (conduct in war) principles Apply theory to contemporary conflicts Practice exam-style questions and analysis

Historical Origins

Augustine of Hippo (354-430 CE) - foundational Christian perspective Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274) - systematic theological framework Hugo Grotius (1583-1645) - international law development Modern applications in Geneva Conventions

Core Principles Overview

{"left":"Jus ad bellum (Right to War)\nJust cause required\nLegitimate authority\nRight intention\nLast resort\nProbability of success","right":"Jus in bello (Conduct in War)\nDiscrimination principle\nProportionality in action\nMilitary necessity\nProtection of non-combatants"}

Jus ad Bellum: Right to War

JUST CAUSE: Self-defense, protecting others, restoring peace LEGITIMATE AUTHORITY: Proper governmental declaration RIGHT INTENTION: Aimed at peace, not revenge or conquest LAST RESORT: All diplomatic options exhausted PROBABILITY OF SUCCESS: Reasonable chance of achieving aims PROPORTIONALITY: Expected good outweighs anticipated harm

Case Study Analysis: Kosovo 1999

Read the Kosovo intervention scenario Work in pairs to evaluate each jus ad bellum criterion Consider: Was NATO intervention justified? Prepare arguments for both sides Present findings to class (5 minutes per pair)

Jus in Bello: Conduct in War

DISCRIMINATION: Distinguish between combatants and civilians PROPORTIONALITY: Means used proportionate to military advantage MILITARY NECESSITY: Only force necessary to achieve objectives HUMANITY: Minimize suffering and protect prisoners Modern challenges: Cyber warfare, drones, terrorism

Critical Thinking Challenge

'Just War Theory is outdated in the age of nuclear weapons and terrorism.' Discuss this statement with reference to: • Nuclear deterrence theory • Asymmetric warfare • Civilian targeting by terrorist groups • Proportionality in modern conflicts

Religious Perspectives

CHRISTIANITY: Augustine's 'love your neighbor' foundation ISLAM: Jihad principles and rules of engagement JUDAISM: Pikuach nefesh (saving life) obligations BUDDHISM: Ahimsa (non-violence) vs. protection duties Secular ethics: Utilitarian and deontological approaches

Modern Applications Timeline

Exam Practice Workshop

30-mark essay question: 'The principle of proportionality makes Just War Theory impossible to apply in practice.' Evaluate this view. Planning time: 10 minutes Writing time: 15 minutes Peer assessment using mark scheme

Key Revision Points

Know the historical development and key thinkers Understand both jus ad bellum AND jus in bello criteria Practice applying theory to contemporary conflicts Consider religious and secular perspectives Develop critical evaluation skills for essays Use specific examples to support arguments