JUST WAR THEORY & INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTIVE JUSTICE

Abstract

In this paper, I attempt to uncover foundational principles in just war theory so as to provide a framework for thinking about international distributive justice. First, I examine the rationale behind jus ad bellum and argue that communal autonomy forms the basis for its principles. I then relate the concept of communal autonomy to the scope for international distribution. Second, I trace the process according to which jus in bello duties move from negative duties (principle of double effect) to positive duties (principle of due care) and finally to its limits (principle of due risk) to uncover diferent motivations at each stage. I then apply these motivations to the context of international distribution to make a case for the type of duties involved and how they are grounded. Finally, I end by relating the significance of these conclusions to the international distributive justice literature.