Muslim responses to weapons of mass destruction
I can explain some of the issues surrounding weapons of mass destruction and Muslim and other responses to them.
Muslim responses to weapons of mass destruction
I can explain some of the issues surrounding weapons of mass destruction and Muslim and other responses to them.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Weapons of mass destruction include nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, which cause widespread, long-term harm.
- International treaties aim to ban or limit their use and spread.
- The Geneva Conventions and Islamic teachings both reject weapons that cause indiscriminate and excessive suffering.
- Muslim scholars argue that both the use and possession of weapons of mass destruction goes against Islamic principles.
- Ethical views differ: utilitarians focus on consequences, while Kantians and Muslims stress duty and sanctity of life.
Keywords
Biological weapons - a weapon of mass destruction which uses living organisms like bacteria, viruses or toxins to infect and damage the body
Chemical weapons - a weapon of mass destruction which uses man-made toxic substances to harm the body through inhalation, skin contact or eye exposure
Nuclear weapons - a weapon of mass destruction which uses a nuclear reaction to cause widespread damage and loss of life
Weapons of mass destruction - weapons which cause widespread, indiscriminate damage (e. g. nuclear, chemical, biological)
Common misconception
Islam allows weapons of mass destruction if used only for defence or deterrence.
Islamic teachings place strict limits on warfare. Most scholars believe that the indiscriminate and lasting harm caused by weapons of mass destruction violates Islamic rules, even if used only for deterrence.
To help you plan your year 11 religious education lesson on: Muslim responses to weapons of mass destruction, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 religious education lesson on: Muslim responses to weapons of mass destruction, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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