The previous chapter has compared the scriptural approaches using fundamental questions (6 Ws) about the use of force: Why (the cause, intent and net benefit)? Who (the authority)? When (last resort)? What (proportionality)? Where (locations)? and hoW (conduct)? It confirmed that the issues raised in just war tradition can be found in most of the other religions. The analysis of passages, both pacific and militant, allowed a comparison among religions and helped in the positioning of the religions on the spectrum of force. Significant commonalities clearly exist among world religions that need to be highlighted such as the holding of life as sacred, the presumption against killing and the quest for peace. Nevertheless significant differences are also noted and contrasted. Both the similarities and the differences should be understood. This is particularly true when analyzing modern conflicts within societies where religious and moral justifications play such an important role. An undertaking of the war/peace approaches in religious scriptures is a first step.
DRDC Toronto CR 2010-036
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