Philosophy Ethics of Warfare

3 Credits · Level: Graduate

This course explores the philosophical foundations and ethical issues inherent to the development, engagement, and deterrence of biological warfare. Biological warfare, defined as the weaponization of pathogens, toxins, or biotechnological tools to cause harm, raises profound questions about morality, international law, and the boundaries of science. Students will critically examine the history of biological warfare, from ancient uses of disease as a weapon to modern concerns involving gene editing, synthetic biology, neurocognitive techniques and tools, and dual-use research of concern (DURC). Central to the course is the philosophical interrogation of what it means to weaponize life itself. Lectures will discuss just war theory, deontological and utilitarian ethics, virtue ethics, and cosmopolitan approaches to human security. Students will query whether biological warfare can be morally justified, and how nations should respond to adversaries who might pursue it. The course also emphasizes contemporary challenges, such as activities of proxy and non-state actors, and the risks of emerging technologies that blur the line between medicine and weaponry. Students will write policy briefs, and develop frameworks for ethical decision-making that consider both national security imperatives and global humanitarian concerns. Restrictions: INCLUDE - Graduate level; School of Continuing Studies college; MA in Liberal Studies degree and Doctor of Liberal Studies degree