Finally, there is a compelling moral argument against war in Iraq. Military force is justified only in self-defense; naked aggression is the province of dictators and rogue states. This is the danger of a new 'preemptive first strike' doctrine. America is the most moral nation on earth, founded on moral principles, and we must apply moral principles when deciding to use military force.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- War is only justified for self‑defense; pre‑emptive strikes are immoral and contradict America’s moral foundations.
- In plain terms
- Only self‑defense justifies military force; pre‑emptive attacks are wrong.
- What can you take from it?
- Apply moral principles before using force.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is a pre‑emptive strike morally permissible?
- How to balance morality and security?
Another view
Pre‑emptive actions can sometimes prevent larger attacks.
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