Peace and conflict (Edexcel GCSE Religious Studies B): Flashcards

Christian doctrine on when warfare is morally acceptable

Realistic possibility war can achieve aims

War's goal must be peace, not power/territory

All non-violent methods tried first

Avoid harming non-combatants

Morally valid reason e.g. resisting aggression

War conducted morally, avoiding unnecessary cruelty

All six must be met simultaneously

First Christian theologian to formulate Just War ideas

Developed Augustine's ideas into systematic criteria

Included Just War in 1992 Catechism

Christians obey authorities God established

Both sides may claim their cause is just

Pacifists focusing on Jesus's peace teachings

Each case judged individually, not by rigid rules