Life and Books and Everything

The Just War Tradition

Mar 20, 2024

Join Kevin and Eric as they discuss the ethics of war, the American Revolution, and the historical context of just war traditions. From King Arthur to MLK, this episode delves into the complexities of military conflicts past and present.

53:18

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Episode guests

Eric Patterson

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Quick takeaways

The American Revolution was more about equal rights and self-defense against British attacks, not a true revolution.

Martin Luther King Jr.'s civil rights movement employed nonviolent resistance to challenge discriminatory laws and seek equal legal treatment.

Deep dives

The Origins of the American War for Independence

The American War for Independence was not a true revolution but a struggle for equal rights and protection under the colonial charters. The catalyst came with the killing of American colonists at Lexington and Concord in 1775, leading to grievances regarding unwanted mercenary presence, loss of jury trials, and religious freedom infringements. These injustices culminated into a call for self-defense following British attacks on American citizens.

Jesus’ interaction with Roman Soldier

01:48

John Witherspoon's Influence on American Independence and the Constitution

01:18

The Justification of Devastating Acts in War

01:16

Introduction

3min

Exploring Current Communist Threats and Advocacy for Religious Freedom

2min

Exploring the Just War Tradition and Ethical Considerations in Warfare

24min

Exploring Humility and Just War Tradition through Historical Examples

2min

The Ethical Dilemma of Just War and Revolution

14min

Exploring the District of Columbia and Just War Traditions

6min

Exploring Just War Tradition and Gratitude for Sponsors

2min

Have you ever wondered if King Arthur was justified in cutting off all four limbs of Monty Python’s Black Knight when he refused the king passage? If so, then you’ll want to listen to this episode of LBE with Eric Patterson. Eric is an author, an important leader in Washington, D.C. and an expert in the theology and history of the Just War Tradition. What are the right reasons for going to war? How should a just war be fought? Was the American Revolution a just war (or even a revolution)? What about the firebombing of Dresden in World War II? Join Kevin and Eric and they try to apply the insights of the Just War Tradition to military conflicts past and present.

Chapters:

0:00 Introductions

7:45 A Basic Guide to the Just War Tradition

15:45 What Makes a War Just?

29:45 Sponsor Break | Crossway

30:28 “It’s Only a Flesh Wound.”

35:25 A Just American Revolution?

46:39 MLK’s Just Cause

51:15 Sponsor Break | Desiring God

52:00 Current Events

Books & Everything:

Basic Guide to the Just War Tradition: Christian Foundations and Practices