Why the Catholic Church is Not Pacifist | Prof. Joseph Capizzi
Mar 21, 2020
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Prof. Joseph Capizzi discusses the Catholic Church's non-pacifist stance, exploring scriptural basis for pacifism, Just War theory, and moral considerations in warfare. The podcast delves into the complexities of guilt in war, ethical implications of disciplining children, and the role of intentionality in actions.
Christian Church endorses just war theory over pacifism
Ethical dilemmas in combat scenarios explored, including collateral damage and preemptive strikes
Balancing national security interests with humanitarian concerns in warfare poses complex moral challenges
Deep dives
Christian Theological Theological Perspectives on Pacifism and Just War Theory
The podcast discusses the theological perspectives on pacifism and just war theory within the Christian tradition. The speaker delves into the historical and philosophical foundations of why the Christian Church is not pacifist, examining the views of prominent theologians like Reinhold Niebuhr and John Howard Yoder. The conversation extends to scriptural analyses, exploring the New Testament's emphasis on nonviolence and the challenges faced by Christian churches when reconciling pacifism with the use of force in defense.
Moral Dilemmas in Combat Scenarios and Espionage
The episode delves into the complex moral dilemmas faced in combat scenarios, including preemptive strikes, espionage, and decisions regarding collateral damage. The discussion explores ethical considerations surrounding drone strikes, the intentional targeting of high-value individuals, and the challenges posed by the presence of innocent civilians in conflict zones. The speaker navigates the fine line between moral justifications for military actions and the unintended consequences of warfare.
The Ethical Quandaries of Battlefield Operations and Geopolitical Decisions
The podcast scrutinizes the ethical implications of military operations and geopolitical decisions, delving into the use of human shields, preemptive strikes, and the strategic challenges faced by armed forces. It delves into real-world examples of moral dilemmas, such as combatants exploiting civilian populations for cover, highlighting the complexities of balancing national security interests with humanitarian concerns in warfare. The discussion raises critical questions about the morality of military tactics and the ethical responsibilities of decision-makers in conflict zones.
Interpretations of Just War Theory and Moral Responsibility in Warfare
The episode critically analyzes interpretations of just war theory and moral responsibility in warfare, exploring the nuances of preemptive strikes, targeted killings, and the use of drones in military operations. The speaker dissects the moral quandaries surrounding military interventions, strategic decision-making, and the ethical frameworks governing armed conflicts. The conversation delves into the principles of discrimination, proportionality, and noncombatant immunity in the context of modern warfare practices.
Navigating the Gray Areas of Conflict Resolution and Military Strategy
The episode navigates the complex terrain of conflict resolution and military strategy, examining the challenges of upholding ethical standards in warfare. The speaker discusses the tensions between preemptive actions, intelligence operations, and the moral complexities of targeting high-value individuals in combat settings. The conversation sheds light on the intricate balance between national security imperatives, civilian protection, and adherence to international humanitarian law in navigating the ethical gray areas of contemporary military engagements.
Professor Joseph Capizzi discusses why the Catholic Church is not pacifist, exploring the historical and theological contexts that justify the use of force in certain situations, particularly in defense of vulnerable people.
This lecture was given at Duke University on February 13, 2020.
Prof. Joseph E. Capizzi is Ordinary Professor of Moral Theology at the Catholic University of America. He teaches in the areas of social and political theology, with special interests in issues in peace and war, citizenship, political authority, and Augustinian theology. He has written, lectured, and published widely on just war theory, bioethics, the history of moral theology, and political liberalism. Dr. Capizzi is also the Executive Director of the Institute for Human Ecology at Catholic University. He received his B.A. from the University of Virginia, his Masters in Theological Studies from Emory University, and his M.A. and Ph.D. in Theology from the University of Notre Dame. He lives in Maryland with his wife and six children.
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