Editor Brian Orend’s book, War Ethics: Theory, Practice and Memoir, is a professionally written and organized compendium work on the theory and practice of ethics in war. The book is organized into three parts with each subsection beginning with the “theory” of each section utilizing individual perspectives of ethics then the authors interpretations. The book is very comprehensive, provides a variety of perspectives, and an excellent source for contemporary ethics in conflict issues.
Part I, “Theory,” is the focus of the book and covers realism, pacifism, just war theory, feminism and gender in war, and finally religious and non-Western perspectives covering Jewish, Muslim, and Eastern theories. Each of the subparts begins with a collection of works from Hobbes to Martin Luther King to Ghandi and their thoughts. This format was the best part of an incredibly good book. Instead of one theorist on ethics, he provides eight to ten, which covers their perspectives, thoughts, and strategies for each of the topics. This helps the reader really expand their knowledge on the topic and compare with others advancing the same ethical theory. Each subpart ends with Orend’s thoughts on the theories and well-reasoned criticisms of the theory to aid with critical thinking. He adds three thought questions for the reader to consider to better understand the different topics covered.
Part II, “Practice,” focuses on eight focus areas from cyber conflict to drones to torture to environmental impact. This part was the most fascinating to me as it covers areas not normally discussed with conflict ethics and many present-day topics that present new ethical challenges. This part follows the same pattern as part I with excerpts from law, treaties, and articles from experts on the topic. Once again, these are well focused and timely topics especially Yemen, Iran, Israel/Hamas, Syria, and the Ukraine/Russia War.
Part III, “Memoirs,” is a collection of individual memoirs of soldiers, civilians, reporters, and observers from diverse backgrounds who wrote their recollections of their struggles with many issues discussed in the book. While the memoirs do not directly address the theory and practice topics from parts I and II, these memoirs are great case studies for educators or leaders to use to discuss earlier aspects of the book. I took copious notes that link to several of the articles from the first two parts that can guide discussion with leaders and students.
My only two improvements would be to expand the section on religious and non-Western perspectives and how these influence how religious governments and non-Western, specifically Asian countries, execute conflict. These perspectives must be understood thoroughly and countered by Western nations in potential future conflict. Also include a short bio of the authors of the pieces within the sections to give their bona fides on the topic. Some of the authors have some introductions, and some do not.
I would highly recommend this book for reading at the services Command and Staff Colleges, Senior Service Colleges, and for any military or political strategist. I would also suggest it for any university course covering national security, international politics, or political science.