The Ethics of Emerging Weapons Technology

What are the three primary ways of thinking about FP/IR?

1. Realism

2. Idealism

3. Pragmatism

How do realists explain FP/IR in international conflicts?

• NO moral explanations

• Self-interest + Opportunity

• “Black box” Domestic Policy (What happens inside does not affect their FP)

• No rules in war (Go Ham)

How do idealists explain FP/IR in international conflicts?

• Yes moral explanation

• Explanation in terms of protection, expansion, and cultivation of supreme form of political system

• Be hero and do what you want (Can go Ham)

What are the approaches to moral philosophy?

• Consequentialism

• Deontology

• Virtue/Character

How does consequentialism approach moral philosophy?

• Outcomes matter most

• *Utilitarianism is a subset

  • In terms of happiness or pleasure

• (How to act)

How does deontology approach moral philosophy?

• Independent of outcome

• One does one’s duty, follows the moral rules

• (How to act)