Ethics: Strategy’s Moral Maze

Abstract

Chapter 2 is about moral authority, moral compass, and the functions of ethical codes. The most central organizing questions here enquire as to the moral authority behind ethical codes, and—going back a step—ask about the moral authority for claimed moral authority. The chapter explains the human necessity for an ethical code. Such a code is simply, at root, operationalized morality. And morality is guidance as to right and wrong behaviour (and possible even thought). Various sources of moral authority are examined, secular and religious. The argument that we all think in moral terms (of right and wrong) is advanced, as also is the thesis that it is not the source of moral authority that matters so much, as rather more the content of its guidance. All moral beliefs find practicable expression in ethical codes. The text examines the theory of just war, and considers the morally deeply troubling fact that policy and strategy usually behave in ways that are perceived to be necessary on consequential logic, and that such expediency typically is justifiable. Moral compass does not have a distinguished record in strategic history.