In this original book, John W. Lango takes some distinctive approaches to the ethics of armed conflict. These include a revisional approach that involves generalising traditional just war principles, so that they are applicable by all sorts of responsible agents to all forms of armed conflict; a cosmopolitan approach that features the Security Council; a preventive approach that emphasises alternatives to armed force, including negotiation, nonviolent action and peacekeeping missions; and a human rights approach that encompasses not only armed humanitarian intervention but also armed invasion, armed revolution and all other forms of armed conflict. The just cause, last resort, proportionality and noncombatant immunity principles are discussed in depth. Additional topics are considered, including moral dilemmas, legitimate authority, deterrence, escalation, intelligence, drone strikes, no-fly zones and peace agreements. Recent real-world cases - such as Afghanistan, Darfur, Libya and South Sudan - are used as illustrations. -- From the publisher.

1. Introduction -- 2. Just war theory -- 3. Moral theory -- 4. Theory of action -- 5. Just cause -- 6. Last resort -- 7. Last resort and noncombatant immunity -- 8. Proportionality and authority -- 9. All things considered.