Exploring the ethics of warfare, the narrative unfolds through the dialogue between a critically injured soldier and his spouse. It delves into major philosophical traditions such as realism, pacifism, just war theory, and international law. By referencing historical conflicts from the Civil War to contemporary issues in Iraq, the author highlights the moral complexities and ambiguities surrounding war, offering readers a profound examination of its ethical implications.
2002 Choice Outstanding Academic Title Award What are human rights? What justifies us in believing we have them? What are rights-holders and duty-bearers? Who should bear the costs and responsibilities for making human rights real? Why have some criticized the human rights perspective? And how can those supportive of human rights best respond? These and other conceptual issues are discussed in full in the first part of this book. The second part offers a detailed account of how the human rights idea came to be such a powerful force in the contemporary world; it traces the evolution of human rights from their origins to their present position in our daily lives, in political struggles, and in both national and international law.