Cahill gives annual Theology lecture
Kristina White
Issue date: 2/22/07 Section: News
Lisa Sowell Cahill gave the Theology Department's annual lecture on Thursday, Feb. 15.
Cahill is an author or editor of 11 books and over 150 essays. Her presentation, titled "War and Peacebuilding: Global Challenges for Christian Ethics" focused on the just war theory and pacifism. Cahill is currently working on a follow-up to her book "Love Your Enemies: Discipleship, Pacifism and Just War," which was published in 1994.
Cahill offered a critical reflection of how the just war theory is put into practice today. In her opinion, modern Christian social ethics are put into the background when problems arise. According to www.justwartheory.com, the just war theory is, "The attempt to distinguish between justifiable and unjustifiable uses of organized armed forces." It also attempts to reduce the use of arms and make war more humane. The goal of the just war theory is "ultimately directed towards the aim of establishing lasting peace and justice."
To remedy some of the just war theory, Cahill suggests some ideas. She suggests that postbellum, a new, category to be considered in the usage of the just war theory. Postbellum refers to the period after the war and the needs the country will face. Cahill suggested that nations consider postbellum care of the countries before engaging in war because "justice during the war includes improving society after the war."
After the lecture, Cahill asked for audience input and opinions, which led to debate criticizing President's Bush's justifications for the war in Iraq.
Cahill currently holds the J. Donald Monan, S.J. Chair in Theology at Boston College where she has taught since 1976. The lecture was sponsored by Rev. Vernon Robertson.
Cahill is an author or editor of 11 books and over 150 essays. Her presentation, titled "War and Peacebuilding: Global Challenges for Christian Ethics" focused on the just war theory and pacifism. Cahill is currently working on a follow-up to her book "Love Your Enemies: Discipleship, Pacifism and Just War," which was published in 1994.
Cahill offered a critical reflection of how the just war theory is put into practice today. In her opinion, modern Christian social ethics are put into the background when problems arise. According to www.justwartheory.com, the just war theory is, "The attempt to distinguish between justifiable and unjustifiable uses of organized armed forces." It also attempts to reduce the use of arms and make war more humane. The goal of the just war theory is "ultimately directed towards the aim of establishing lasting peace and justice."
To remedy some of the just war theory, Cahill suggests some ideas. She suggests that postbellum, a new, category to be considered in the usage of the just war theory. Postbellum refers to the period after the war and the needs the country will face. Cahill suggested that nations consider postbellum care of the countries before engaging in war because "justice during the war includes improving society after the war."
After the lecture, Cahill asked for audience input and opinions, which led to debate criticizing President's Bush's justifications for the war in Iraq.
Cahill currently holds the J. Donald Monan, S.J. Chair in Theology at Boston College where she has taught since 1976. The lecture was sponsored by Rev. Vernon Robertson.
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