Remote Killing and the Ethics of Drone Warfare

Abstract

This chapter considers the ethical aspects of remote killing with drones through the just war doctrine, the psychology of distance and killing, the role of machines in warfare, and public consent to the covert use of force. American counter-terrorism against al Qaeda that includes the tactical use of drones generally follows the just war doctrine, but the vast distance between combatants and ease of sending in unmanned and robotic instruments lends itself to the increasing willingness to use force without public or legislative participation in overseas military operations. Many also fear the decline of martial virtues with the advent of remote controlled warfare and a video game mentality, though the current U.S. military practice is strict on the rules of engagement and lethal action.