Justifying war :

Abstract

This study provides the first, comprehensive account of the evolution of Western ideas concerning the justification of war. This research establishes a historical basis for the contemporary just war tradition, rather than relying on assertions, legalisms, or esoteric philosophical systems.

Because human beings have fought wars, yet recognized at the same time that wars produce preponderantly negative results, they have tried to tame war. Standards of justification have followed a progressive evolution. Humankind has sought: (1) to reduce the frequency of war; (2) to diminish the severity of war; (3) to build a general and lasting peace; and (4) to achieve justice. As a yardstick of the three other tendencies, justice has been seen as natural and reasonable. The natural law tradition has prevailed--hand-in-hand with common utility. From classical times to the twentieth century, each major characteristic of the just war tradition has undergone a slow and uneven, but purposeful, evolution.