Analyse the moral issues arising from modern armaments - Scottish Highers Religious Moral and Philosophical Studies - Question 21 - 2018

Modern armaments have raised numerous moral issues that challenge our understanding of ethics in warfare and conflict. These issues often revolve around the implications of technology in warfare, the impact on civilians, and the ethical considerations of peace and conflict resolution.

1. Ethical implications of technology: Modern armaments, such as drones and automated weapons, pose significant ethical dilemmas. The ability to conduct warfare with minimal human involvement raises questions about accountability. For example, if a drone strike results in civilian casualties, who is responsible?

2. Impact on civilians: The use of modern armaments often has direct consequences on civilian populations, leading to high casualties and displacement. The debate centers around the principle of proportionality in warfare, where the harm to civilians must be balanced against the military advantage gained.

3. Moral responsibility of states: Nations that produce and sell modern armaments carry a moral responsibility for their usage. This includes considering the conflict's context and the potential for these weapons to exacerbate violence in conflict zones.

These moral issues lead to ongoing debates concerning the justification and ethicality of using modern armaments in warfare.