The Just War - Softcover

Paul Ramsey

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0819133574 ISBN 13: 9780819133571

Publisher: University Press of America, 1983

Synopsis

First published in 1968, these essays analyze the moral and religious problems posed by the presence of nuclear weapons in a dangerous and deeply divided world. The book considers whether the just war is a valid concept when its prosecution might entail the destruction of the world.

About this title

About the Author

Paul Ramsey, one of the leading theologians of the 20th century, was professor of religion at Princeton University. Among his many writings are Basic Christian Ethics, Nine Modern Moralists, and War and the Christian Conscience: How Shall Modern War be Conducted Justly.

Review

The enduring merit of Paul Ramsey's work is his ability to identify fundamental politcal-moral doctorine, clarify its theological sources and meanings, and apply it analytically and critically to the murkiest and most complicated problems of political-moral practice. The Just War is a masterful collection of theoretical ethical reflections on the actual doing of politics.... (Weber, Theodore R.)

Since its first appearance in 1968 Paul Ramsey's The Just War has established itself as a reference point in the Christian discussion of war and deterrence in the English-speaking world. Ramsey thinks with searching intensity, and demands a great deal of his readers in thoughtfulness and concentration. He rewards them with an experience of intellectual penetration which is all too rare in the discussion of contemporary problems.... (Oliver O'Donovan,)

The work is dense and wide-ranging. With this most welcome edition, the valuable lessons of Ramsey's The Just War should be extended to a new generation of students and scholars.....

Anyone seriously concerned with the moral questions of modern warfare must confront the careful thinking of Paul Ramsey. One may not always agree but one never fails to learn--even in moments of disagreement..... (Rev. J. Bryan Hehir,)

Edition details

• Publisher: University Press of America
• Publication date: 1983
• ISBN 10: 0819133574
• ISBN 13: 9780819133571
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English