Justice after War (Jus Post Bellum)
Background Information
Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Secretary of State Colin Powell is known for his “Pottery Barn rule.” Powell stated, “if you break it, you own it.” He was referring to the idea that if the United States, or any other nation, attacks another country and causes great destruction, it is morally imperative that time and money be spent to clean up and help that country get back on its feet. This is consistent with jus post bellum thinking. You will have a chance to add to Chairman Powell’s assessment of the moral and ethical obligations that the United States inherits once the decision to use military force against another nation is made.Instructions
- Review/read the following:
- Chapter 6, “Spreading Democracy or Asserting National Interests? The Case of the Wars on Iraq” in your textbook, Faith and Force: A Christian Debate about War.
- Jus Post Bellum
- Write a 500- to 700-word response to Colin Powell, either agreeing with his “Pottery Barn rule” or presenting a different rule you think should be applied in post-war situations. Is the United States really obligated to help a country get back on its feet if that nation was involved with attacking the United States or causing harm to American citizens?
- Be specific in your responses and use concrete examples from the textbook, supplemental readings, outsides sources, and personal experiences to frame your writing.
- Use at least two scholarly resources in addition to the readings assigned in this workshop.
- Use in-text citations and APA format for direct quotations and references to the readings.
