The increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has proven to be a catalyst for contentious dialogue (Valavanis et al: 2008; 3) between those whom acknowledge the suggested advantages of deploying UAVs and those who disagree on the basis that there are unjustifiable moral implications, especially in the context of warfare (Boyle. M :2013; 21). I remain impartial with regard to these arguments, however full justification shall be provided in due course as to why. This paper therefore, shall be written from the perspective of my own. To accurately evaluate these contrasting arguments we must first identify the meaning of morality in the context of warfare. Devlin. P (1965) acknowledges that definitively stating the confines of morality remains a hugely subjective issue, and so for simplicity, one broadly suited definition shall be accepted throughout the scope of this work. I believe Meisels. T's (2012: 932) notion whereby the laws of warfare, such as those presented in the Geneva conventions and the theory of 'just war'; which establishes humane 'rules' of conducting warfare, are inextricably linked with the notion of preserving morality during war. This perception on morality will therefore provide the parameters for the entirety of this essay to be argued from, and so whether warfare is 'moral' or not shall be decided by the extent to which war conforms with both the Geneva conventions and more importantly the theory of just war.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Key issues regarding the co-existence of morality and UAVs
- A digressing yet important point to make, is that according to Schulzke. M (2011: 295) war itself is subjective as indeed it is difficult to distinguish between acts of war, and public uprisings.
- The issue of culpability is also relevant when discussing the morals of warfare since it is important to know who is accountable for wrong-doings Green. P and Ward. T (2004).
- Distance from the warzone is arguably a factor for discussion. Lt Col Dawkins. J (2005: 27-29) states that as the pilot operating the UAV is potentially thousands of miles away from the warzone, then the entirety of their war is fought from inside a small room filled with computer screens, thus eliminating all the conventional factors of warfare including the emotions linked with war such as fear, pity, remorse and many others.
- Harm
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper aims to critically examine the moral implications of using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in combat, particularly within the contexts of harm, agency, and regulation. It seeks to understand the key arguments surrounding the controversy surrounding the use of UAVs, analyze their ethical implications, and offer recommendations for ensuring their use aligns with global moral standards. The main themes explored in this paper include: * **The Moral Implications of UAV Use:** This theme focuses on the inherent moral complexities of using UAVs in warfare, especially in the context of 'just war' theory and the principles of jus in bello. * **The Role of Agency and Accountability:** The paper examines the issue of accountability and culpability in UAV operations, considering the role of individual operators, organizational structures, and legal frameworks. * **The Impact of Distance and Detachment:** The paper explores the potential ethical implications of the physical and emotional detachment of UAV pilots from the battlefield, and how this distance might influence decision-making and moral judgment. * **The Balance of Harm and Benefit:** The paper analyzes the potential benefits of UAVs in warfare, such as increased precision and reduced risk to friendly forces, alongside the potential harms, including civilian casualties and the erosion of moral boundaries. * **The Importance of Regulation:** The paper emphasizes the need for clear regulations and international frameworks to govern the use of UAVs in combat, ensuring they are employed ethically and responsibly.Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The paper explores the ethical implications of using UAVs in combat through various perspectives, examining the moral complexities surrounding the use of such technology in warfare. The first section explores the controversial nature of UAVs, contrasting the arguments for their deployment with concerns about their potential to promote violence and undermine moral principles. It outlines the principles of jus in bello and discusses how UAVs may violate these principles, particularly regarding proportionality, distinction, and the use of 'malum in se'. The second section delves into the complexities of accountability and culpability in drone strikes, highlighting the challenges of identifying individuals responsible for civilian casualties and the concept of 'organizational deviance'. It analyzes the case of a 2008 drone strike in Pakistan that resulted in the deaths of civilians, demonstrating the potential for unintended consequences and the difficulty of achieving accountability. The third section examines the potential moral implications of the physical and emotional detachment of UAV pilots from the battlefield. It argues that the lack of direct engagement and emotional connection to the consequences of their actions could lead to a desensitization to the value of human life and potentially contribute to reckless or immoral decisions. The fourth section discusses the broader 'harms' associated with the use of UAVs, including the potential for political and economic consequences. It emphasizes the importance of a utilitarian justification for war, which seeks to minimize overall harm and maximize well-being.Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This paper centers on the ethical and moral considerations surrounding the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in combat. Key terms and concepts include: 'just war' theory, jus in bello, proportionality, distinction, military necessity, malum in se, accountability, culpability, organizational deviance, detachment, harm, agency, regulation, and moral implications.- Quote paper
- William Kealey (Author), 2012, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in combat, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/267118