War, Peace, Conflict & The Rules of Warfare [P4C - Philosophy & Ethics Lesson]

This ‘Fun Philosophy Lesson’ is focused on ethical issues relating to warfare, conflict, peace, and the ethical use of violence. It’s ideal for students studying History, Philosophy, Ethics, Religious Studies or Citizenship, and whilst it can be used with younger students, it is most suited to students aged 10-16.

Please note: teacher discretion is advised, please be mindful of the sensitive nature of this topic and of students in your classroom who might be particularly effected by these issues.

This interactive multi-use learning session will be of particular interest to teachers looking to explore the ethics of war and conflict. It focuses on a wide range of topics such as:

• The ethics of war and when, if ever, war is justified
• The moral implications of targeting civilians in conflict
• The difference between just and unjust wars
• The role of pacifism and non-violence
• The impact of modern warfare technology on ethical decision-making
• The balance between national security and global peace
   
  We’ve aimed to cover as many issues as possible to engage young learners in debating and discussing the ethics of war, peace, and conflict!

The big question asked in this session is “When (if ever) is it morally permissible to go to war?” Using a variety of engaging activities, students will discuss and debate a wide range of other philosophical and ethical questions such as:

• What rules should govern the conduct of soldiers during war?

• Are drones and automated weapons more ethical than traditional warfare?

• In a democracy, should there always be a vote before a country goes to war? and

• Is absolute pacifism realistic?
   
  Students will also analyse and evaluate a broad spectrum of philosophical and ethical claims such as:

• “There should be no rules in a morally justified war”

• “The invention of nuclear weapons was, ultimately, a good thing”

• “Humans are naturally prone to violence and conflict”

• “Every soldier has a moral responsibility to refuse orders they believe are wrong.”

• “Violence can be used for good” and

• “Men and women should both fight in wars in equal numbers”
   
  This session uses our unique format for philosophy teaching resources and features an integrated menu that allows teachers to select from a variety of starter, main, plenary, assessment, and end-of-lesson reflection activities. With a vast selection of activities designed to trigger philosophical discussions, debates, and reflections, you can re-use the resource numerous times with the same group. For teachers wishing to run ‘P4C’ (Philosophy for Children) sessions, these resources are ideal!

The file is a non-editable PowerPoint Show: no planning or preparation is required, just run the file and the intuitive menu system will make delivering a thought-provoking philosophy session easy!