They argue that traditional moral and political principles must be employed in any coherent discussion of international conflict. The contributors share a common conviction about the importance of defending democracies and a common concern about the moral character of the means of this defense. Furthermore, they contend, only cooperation among policymakers, technical and military specialists, and those concerned with the moral and religious dimensions of the nuclear dilemma will lead to effective and morally acceptable policies. The scope of the book is very broad. Going beyond abstract theoretical questions, the discussion delves into the moral considerations surrounding recent developments in warfighting capabilities.
Fresh light is shed on the numerous paradoxes and dangers created by nuclear weapons today.
Other topics include the effects of nuclear weapons on the evaluation of modern nonnuclear conflicts and the roles and responsibilities of statesmen and citizens in the pursuit of peace. This is a book that will inspire discussions to help guide public affairs in a just and prudent way. William V. O'Brien is a professor of government at Georgetown University. John Langan, S.J. , is Senior Research Fellow at Woodstock Theological Center, Georgetown University.