The Just War theory
I can explain the Just War theory, describe different Christian views, and give my opinion on whether a war can ever be justified.
The Just War theory
I can explain the Just War theory, describe different Christian views, and give my opinion on whether a war can ever be justified.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- The Just War theory is a set of conditions which, if met, may suggest a war is justifiable.
- It is a largely Christian theory but has influenced international law on conflict.
- It suggests a war can only be called by a figure of authority, this is supported by Romans 13: 1-7.
- Many people argue that a war can never truly be justified.
- Some will use ethical theories, e.g. situation ethics, alongside the Just War theory, to make case-by-case decisions.
Keywords
Just War theory - a set of ethical principles used to decide whether war is morally acceptable
Situation ethics - an ethical theory that emphasises making moral decisions based on the specific situation, rather than relying on fixed rules
Pacifist - someone who believes that all forms of violence are wrong and therefore refuse to participate in war or any other form of violence
Common misconception
Any war fought by Christians is automatically 'just'.
The Just War theory has strict rules that many wars don’t meet. Some students may think wars like WWI or the Crusades were 'just' because Christians fought in them, without realising conditions like the last resort or proportionality weren’t met.
To help you plan your year 11 religious education lesson on: The Just War theory, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 religious education lesson on: The Just War theory, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Explore more key stage 4 religious education lessons from the Religion, peace and conflict unit, dive into the full secondary religious education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
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