IS IT EVER RIGHT TO USE VIOLENCE TO ESTABLISH PEACE?

Abstract

The Just war theory provides a moral justification for the use of armed force under certain circumstances, seeing war as sometimes a necessary evil and setting principles for its use. Pacifism is that ethical response which rejects war under all circumstances. Both of these positions, although taking opposite sides of the spectrum, imply a moral presumption against war and armed conflict. Scholars and activists in both fields put forward diverse arguments to support their claims. Criteria for the justification for war can be and are used and abused by the stronger nations of the world to justify wars for ulterior, often times selfish, economic interests. Military expenditure globally has serious social and economic implications, and undoubtedly a reduction in this spending and a redirection of these funds for the benefit of human and social development would result in a more peaceful world. Many today believe, that the Just War theory is one from which we must distance ourselves and seek a world of justice and peace through nonviolent means. Our world would indeed be a different place if the intentional promotion of sustainable peace building and human security was at the centre of all political, social, and economic activity.