Western Way of War Just War Theory and Not Just War
Mar 11, 2021
Joining Peter Roberts is Beatrice Heuser, Chair of International Relations at the University of Glasgow and a leading expert in military strategy and nuclear issues. They delve into the evolution of Western warfare, questioning how democratic nations perceive conflict. Heuser emphasizes the complexities of peace treaties, asserting that a good treaty doesn’t guarantee lasting peace. The discussion also touches on historical military theories and the importance of understanding adversaries to navigate conflicts effectively.
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Just War Tradition Anchors Western Way
- Beatrice Heuser argues the Western way of war centers on a just war value tradition.
- She traces it back to the ancient Greeks and highlights its recurring influence.
Greek Origins Of 'Western Way' Idea
- Heuser explains Herodotus and Aristotle framed a Greek fighting style as direct confrontation.
- Victor Davis Hanson later popularized that image as a broader 'Western way of war'.
French Élan Traced To Christine De Pisan
- Beatrice Heuser recounts Christine de Pisan's praise for French martial virtues.
- Pisan linked French courage and elan to classical readings and influenced centuries of French military self-image.
