[The author] traces the historical development of just war reasoning, its incorporation into international laws concerning when and how to wage war, and certain shortcomings with existing laws and practices concerning the conduct of modern-day hostilities. -Back cover.

Just war in antiquity -- Christianity and the just war tradition -- Saint Augustine and the tradition of just war -- Secularization of the just war tradition -- Hugo Grotius, father of international law -- Hugo Grotius and the just war -- Problems for international law -- The responsibility for war crimes -- Military necessity -- Reprisals -- Terrorism and war -- The just war and weapons of mass destruction -- The enemy: cold blooded killers or comrades in arms? -- Unjust wars and professional obligations -- The role of the United Nations.