Ethics and Terror

FAIN: FT-51409-03

Bradley C. Watson
St. Vincent College (Latrobe, PA 15650-2690)

This project investigates the ethical problems raised by the “war on terror.” What are the ethics of the liberal world’s (especially the United States’) actions in opposing terrorism, according to traditional “just war” theory—which stands at an ethical midpoint between pacifism and unbounded realpolitik? This project will seek to limn the extent to which the traditional Western manner of understanding the nature and limits of just war (under jus ad bellum and jus in bello criteria, respectively) is adequate to the unique challenges posed by a non-traditional enemy. Specific ethical issues include just cause, proportionality, civilian casualties, and the status and treatment of detainees.