facebook pixel
New Ideal - Reason | Individualism | Capitalism

The Morality of Self-Defense and Innocent Deaths in War

In this episode of New Ideal Live, Ben Bayer and Ziemowit Gowin discuss the right to self-defense, deaths of innocents in war, and just war theory in the context of Israel’s war with Hamas in Gaza.

Among the topics covered:

  • Why the responsibility for deaths of innocents in war falls on the aggressor;
  • How the right to self-defense rests on the inalienable right to your own life;
  • How the aggressor can be morally responsible for deaths the defender caused;
  • How the principle of “double effect” undermines the right to self-defense.

Mentioned in this podcast is Onkar Ghate’s article “Innocents in War?

The podcast was recorded on November 3, 2023. Listen to the discussion below. Listen and subscribe from your mobile device on Apple PodcastsGoogle Podcasts, Spotify or Stitcher. Watch archived podcasts here.

Podcast audio:

SUPPORT ARI

If you value the ideas presented here, please become an ARI Member today.

Do you have a comment or question?

Share this article:

Reinier Schuur

Reinier Schuur is a junior fellow at ARI who works on health policy.

Updates from New Ideal

Book Image  

Ayn Rand University App

Explore unique philosophical content that challenges conventional views — in courses you can take on the go.

Available on Google Play and
the App Store.

Welcome to New Ideal!

If you like what you’re reading, be sure to subscribe to our weekly newsletter! You’ll also receive a FREE copy of our book, Illuminating Ayn Rand.