The Ethics of Nuclear Deterrence: A Critical Comment on the Pastoral Letter of the U.S. Catholic Bishops

Abstract

1. In May 1983 the Roman Catholic bishops of the United States issued a wide-ranging pastoral letter about the problems of international security. The letter conveys moral tolerance of deterrent possession of nuclear weapons, at least for a while, alongside what seems virtually comprehensive condemnation of their use. The present writer, while sharing the acceptance of deterrence, believes that such a stance is flawed in practice and logic, and unlikely to provide lasting support for the conclusion. This commentary states the central difference between the letter's position and the writer's; outlines a theory of the basic significance of nuclear weapons in warfare; against that background, argues that wholesale condemnation of nuclear use is mistaken; and then examines other weaknesses in the letter's position. 2. Basic ethical views on nuclear weapons fall within three main positions: A. Use of nuclear weapons must always be wrong, and possession for deterrence must also be wrong. B. Use might in some forms and circumstances be legitimate, and possession can therefore be justifiable. C. While use must always be wrong, possession for deterrence can be justifiable.