Designed as a starting point for debate and discussion, this classic introduction to the ethics of war and peace explores in depth the legal and moral issues of when and how to use force to achieve political objectives. A detailed overview and critical, philosophical analysis — written by a professional soldier with over 25 years of commissioned service including 10 years as a professor of ethics at West Point — it surveys the historical development of just war reasoning, its incorporation into the international laws concerning when and how to wage war, and the specific shortcomings with existing laws and practices concerning the conduct of modern-day hostilities.