A Basic Guide to the Just War Tradition

In this accessible introduction, Eric Patterson outlines the Christian just war tradition, explaining its historical roots, core principles, and how they apply to modern conflicts.

The book covers criteria such as just cause, right intention, proportionality, discrimination, and last resort, and connects theological reflection with practical statecraft.

Patterson brings examples from history and contemporary policy to show how Christians can evaluate the morality of military action.

The work aims to equip clergy, laypeople, and public servants with a framework for thinking about war and peace from a Christian perspective.

It emphasizes both the moral limits on violence and the responsibilities of political authorities to pursue justice and security.