Spring 2003 - Fenwick High School

Just War
STUDENTS DISCUSS THE “JUST WAR THEORY”
14
SPRING 2003
In late February, NBC’s show “Nightline,” hosted by Ted Koppel, devoted its total half-hour to
describing and debating the Just War Theory.
Fenwick students were involved in a similar experience four months earlier. As one of the “faith
formation” programs held during the course of the school year, students discussed the question
from both sides. To view the entire student discussion, visit the web site and select “Audio/Video”
Also, a Fenwick alumnus who is a Dominican has provided an explanation of the Just War
Doctrine, so each of us can decide for ourselves.
CAN THERE BE A JUST WAR
YOU DECIDE. By Rev. Dennis Woerter, O.P. ’86
In the wake of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the
United States began bombing Afghanistan. This resulted in
much debate from all parts of the political and religious
spectrums. Some would say that our bombing of Afghanistan
was justified, and others would say that it was not. The same
goes for the current war in Iraq. It is a sign of our own times,
and our own political system that this debate has not been fully
resolved.
Even in the Catholic Church the opinions vary. A recent survey
said that 60% of Catholics support the war in Iraq. However,
Pope John Paul II and several bishops have spoken out against
the war. The Pope has said, ‘War is a defeat for humanity.” So,
what do we do
The Just War Doctrine dates from the time of Augustine, and
was nuanced by the likes of Thomas Aquinas and Francisco de
Vitoria. More recently, in his encyclical Pacem in Terris, Pope
John XXIII expressed grave concern about the applicability of
the Just War Doctrine in light of the proliferation of nuclear
arms. This has led to some debate among theologians on the
necessity of such a doctrine. So, what do we do
Rev. Dennis Woerter, O.P.
What follows are the traditional conditions for a just war. It is
good for us to evaluate them in light of the war in Iraq, and
other events that have occurred since September 11, 2001.
1) There must be a just cause, which includes the undoing of
injustices and defense against aggression;
2) Must be waged by a competent authority;
3) The intent must be right. This excludes revenge and hatred
of the enemy;
4) War must be a last resort;
5) The values being defended and the goals that will be
achieved must outweigh the harm that will be done;
6) There must be a reasonable hope of success;
7) And in the complexities of a certain dispute, the whole
range of issues between the parties must be considered.
These are the criteria for waging a Just War. As the national
debate continues, may we all have the courage to grapple with
this issue and develop an informed and educated opinion. You
decide!
United States Conference of Catholic
Bishops Issues Statement on War with Iraq
March 12, 2003
In time of war our first obligation is prayer and solidarity. We
pray for all those more directly affected by this war: the men
and women who risk their lives in the service of our nation,
their families and loved ones who face such fear and anxiety
at this time, and the chaplains who serve them; the long
suffering people of Iraq, and those who labor to provide for
their humanitarian needs. All of us should do what we can to
reach out in solidarity to all those who will suffer as a result
of this war.”
Read the complete statement on the Fenwick web site:
www.fenwickfriars.com