Can anyone tell me what the Just War Theory intails?

Question

I'm studying for my Philosophy Moral issues exam and need a little help...

Answer 1

This is a very complicated subject. But in a short summary, Just War Theory (JWT) first emerged during the Christian Crusades and was formalized by Hugo Grotius.

In modern times, the theory has evolved into guidelines for determining whether or not a sovereign state is justified in using force against another sovereign state. JWT is not intended as a checklist for going to war, rather its a body of knowledge that assists the leader in determining if sufficient evidence exists to justify military action.

JWT, by its current definition, can be broken down into Jus Ad Bellum, or justification for using force and Jus In Bellow, or rules/considerations for using force once hostilities have commenced.    

Answer 2

war is OK if it is justifiable.

in other words, if you arent attacked, you cant invade.

Answer 3

LOOK IT UP ON THE INTERNET ENCYCLOPEDIA OF PHILOSOPHY UNDER THE JUST WAR THEORY. IT WAS VERY WELL WRITTEN.