Ethics In The Use Of Force: When to Make a Stand or Walk Away - Philosophy in Operation

Force is a powerful tool, capable of both destruction and preservation. In the realm of ethics, the use of force raises critical questions on when it is justifiable to make a stand and assert our beliefs or when it is better to walk away to avoid harm. This article explores the philosophical underpinnings of ethics in the use of force and delves into the complexities behind decision-making.

The Dilemma of Force

Force can be defined as the exertion of power or strength against an opposing force or entity. In various contexts, such as self-defense, upholding justice, or protecting the innocent, the use of force can be seen as morally acceptable. However, the ethical questions arise when force is used to advance personal or political agendas, instigate violence, or oppress others.

Philosophers have long debated the circumstances under which force can be ethically justified. One school of thought argues for the principle of proportionality, suggesting that force should only be used to the extent necessary to achieve a just end. Others propose the principle of non-aggression, which asserts that the initiation of force is always morally wrong.

Command Decisions: Use of Force: Ethics in the Use of Force, When to Make a Stand or Walk Away Philosophy, Operation, and Function

by Peter G. Hilton JD(Kindle Edition)

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Language	:	English
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Proactive Force: Standing Up for Justice

There are times when standing up and using force may be seen as ethically imperative. For example, in the face of oppression, defending one's rights and speaking out against injustice can be seen as morally justified. This notion aligns with the principles of equality, liberty, and human dignity.

Martha, a renowned philosopher, argues that individuals have a moral duty to make a stand when faced with injustice. She believes that failing to act would make one complicit in perpetuating the wrongdoing. However, Martha emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the force used is proportionate and directed towards achieving a just outcome.

Reactive Force: The Ethical Dilemma of Self-Defense

The use of force in self-defense presents a complex ethical dilemma. On one hand, defending oneself or others from harm can be perceived as a moral obligation. On the other hand, determining when the use of force surpasses the bounds of self-defense and becomes aggressive is highly subjective.

John, a renowned moral philosopher, explores this dilemma and suggests that force used in self-defense must meet certain conditions. He argues that force should only be used as a last resort when all other options for resolving the conflict have been exhausted. Additionally, the level of force employed should be proportionate to the threat faced, ensuring that it does not cause unnecessary harm.

The Art of Walking Away

Walking away from a confrontational situation is often perceived as a sign of weakness, but from an ethical standpoint, it can be seen as an act of wisdom and compassion. Choosing to disengage from a conflict can prevent unnecessary harm and preserve the dignity of all parties involved.

Elizabeth, a moral philosopher known for her pacifist views, advocates for the practice of walking away when possible. She argues that by refusing to engage in forceful confrontations, individuals can exemplify a commitment to non-violence and contribute to a more peaceful society. However, Elizabeth acknowledges that walking away is not always an option, especially when the lives of innocent individuals are at stake.

Ethics in the use of force is a complex and multifaceted topic. It requires careful consideration of the circumstances, intentions, and consequences of employing force. While there are situations where making a stand or resorting to force is ethically justifiable, there are also instances where walking away and seeking alternative solutions is the morally sound choice.

As individuals, we must constantly evaluate our ethical responsibilities when faced with decisions involving force. By employing philosophical frameworks and taking into account the broader implications, we can strive towards a society that upholds justice, protects human rights, and promotes peace.

Command Decisions: Use of Force: Ethics in the Use of Force, When to Make a Stand or Walk Away Philosophy, Operation, and Function

by Peter G. Hilton JD(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3396 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	616 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

In 2015, there have been a total of one thousand one hundred and thirty four civilians shot to death by police (http://killedbypolice.net/) with a total of thirty six police officers in 2015 being shot and killed in the line of duty, there have been a total of one hundred and eighteen officers who died on duty during 2015 (https://www.odmp.org/search/year).
So far in 2015, U.S. police killed 776 people, 161 of whom were completely unarmed at the time of their death.

The data was compiled by The Guardian for a project called “The Counted,” a continuously updated, interactive database of police killings in the United States. Based on their figures, police have killed, on average, about three people per day so far this year. The Counted database is the most comprehensive information available on police killings, since no U.S. government agency maintains a similar listing.
Police killings in America have sparked a national movement for police reform, especially since the death of Mike Brown last year in Ferguson, Missouri.

Based on The Guardian’s statistics, police killed more white people than any other race this year. A total 385 white people have been killed by police this year, and 66 of them were unarmed at the time of their death.

However, activists like the members of the Black Lives Matter movement argue that police kill blacks at a rate disproportionate to their total percentage of the population — an assertion supported by The Guardian’s statistics. Police killed almost five black people per every million black residents of the U.S., compared with about 2 per million for both white and hispanic victims.
The vast majority of those killed — 745 — were men.

People were killed by police at all ages and in every state except Rhode Island, South Dakota and Vermont, three of the country’s least populated states. Certain cities stand out as more dangerous than others: The most police by killings occurred in Los Angeles (14 dead),Houston (11),Phoenix (9),New York (7) and Oklahoma City (7).

Shooting was the most common cause of police-related death, at 680. Of the 161 unarmed individuals, 71 were shot by police. The second most common cause of death found in the study were Tasers, which led to the deaths of 39 people, followed by being struck by police vehicles (26). Twenty-eight people died in police custody, according to The Guardian, but this figure does not include victims like Sandra Bland, who died in a Texas jail under conditions many describe as suspicious, although suicide was listed as her official cause of death.

Of the 582 people who were armed at the time of their death, 374 were carrying firearms and 107 were armed with knives. Of course, the numbers also cannot account for whether those killed were actively threatening police with their weapons versus those who were not, like Paul Castaway, the Native American man killed July 12 in Denver while holding a knife to his own neck.

Although police advocates claim the frequent use of force is necessary to protect officers from a highly dangerous job, the statistics don’t seem to back this up. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund reported that 25 officers were killed by gunfire so far in 2015, with the Officer Down Memorial Pagenoting that two of those deaths came from accidental discharge of their firearms. (mintpressnews)