Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly introduce the existence of international institutions (e.g., UN, WTO) aimed at ensuring fairness in international relations. Mention that despite these institutions, states often prioritize their own interests over moral values. 2. Reason 1: Sense of Insecurity Discuss how ...
Model Answer The ethics of war is a deeply debated topic, especially in the context of contemporary international conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war or the Israel-Palestine conflict. While war is generally seen as a tragic and undesirable outcome, there are circumstances where it can be considereRead more
Model Answer
The ethics of war is a deeply debated topic, especially in the context of contemporary international conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war or the Israel-Palestine conflict. While war is generally seen as a tragic and undesirable outcome, there are circumstances where it can be considered ethical, based on several justifications.
Just War Principles
- Just Cause: War may be ethical if it is fought for a morally justified reason, such as preventing atrocities. For example, NATO’s intervention in Kosovo (1999) to stop ethnic cleansing is often cited as a just cause for military action.
- Self-Defense: If a nation is facing an existential threat, war may be ethical. India’s intervention in the Bangladesh Liberation War (1971) was deemed necessary to address the refugee crisis and secure borders.
- Last Resort: War becomes ethical when all diplomatic avenues fail. The Indo-Portuguese War (1961) followed prolonged attempts to resolve Goa’s political status peacefully.
Ethical Concerns
Despite these justifications, war often violates fundamental ethical principles. The deliberate targeting of civilians, such as in the Israel-Hamas war (2023), where thousands of children died, is considered morally unacceptable. Additionally, wars lead to long-term harm, such as displacement in the Syrian Civil War, and the use of weapons of mass destruction, like the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, raises serious ethical concerns.
In conclusion, while war can sometimes be deemed ethical under certain conditions, its devastating consequences often outweigh these justifications. The hope is for a world where war is a rare, last-resort option.
See less
Model Answer Disregard for Moral Values in International Relations Despite the existence of various institutions designed to ensure fairness in international relations, states often prioritize their own interests over moral values. 1. Sense of Insecurity Countries frequently act on the basis of mutuRead more
Model Answer
Disregard for Moral Values in International Relations
Despite the existence of various institutions designed to ensure fairness in international relations, states often prioritize their own interests over moral values.
1. Sense of Insecurity
Countries frequently act on the basis of mutual distrust and insecurity. For example, despite commitments to non-violence, nations like North Korea pursue nuclear weapons, undermining global peace efforts.
2. Just War Theory
The ethical considerations surrounding warfare often lead to moral dilemmas. The U.S. decision to drop atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II is an example where the justification of military action conflicted with humanitarian principles.
3. Regional Supremacy Aspirations
Nations often engage in practices that undermine fairness for regional dominance. China’s support for Pakistan through arms funding and opposition to sanctions illustrates how strategic partnerships can prioritize national interests over ethical considerations.
4. Colonial Hangover
Despite advocating for territorial sovereignty, countries may interfere in others’ affairs. The British Parliament’s discussions regarding the abrogation of Article 370 in India exemplify this contradiction.
5. Distributive Justice
Developed nations, primarily responsible for climate change, often fail to take equitable responsibility in mitigation efforts, highlighting a disregard for collective justice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while institutions exist to promote fairness, states frequently disregard these moral frameworks in pursuit of self-interest, leading to significant ethical challenges in global relations.
See less