The atomic bombing of Hiroshima: A reasonable and just decision.

摘要

The judgments of historians regarding the atomic bombing of Hiroshima during World War II can be grouped into two opposing camps: those who believe President Truman made the right choice and those who decry that decision, believing that other options were ignored and the motives presented for dropping the bomb were suspect. Many critics of the atomic bombing also argue that the decision failed to meet the "discrimination" and "proportionality" criteria set forth in Just War Theory (specifically, jus in bello or conduct during war) and, therefore, must be deemed an immoral act.;In examining whether the atomic bombing was a reasonable decision, this thesis analyzes the important variables and competing interests that President Truman considered and concludes that the atomic bombing was a sensible and rational choice and, therefore, reasonable. In determining whether the atomic bombing of Hiroshima was a just decision, this thesis examines that fateful decision through the prism of Just War Theory and the Natural Law traditions of the individual's Right to Life and the state's Right to Independence and concludes that it was a just decision.;This inquiry uses a qualitative approach to study the available information and interpretations related to the Hiroshima bombing. It compares and contrasts historical records, evidence, and the views of leading historians. It then applies the relevant criteria to the facts to determine the appropriate conclusion.;The detailed review and analysis of the history behind the Hiroshima bombing reveal that President Truman was a prisoner of circumstances that existed in the summer of 1945. The options available to him were distressing and his decision to drop the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, considering the dire situation, was well within reason and, admirably, proved prescient. As well, this thesis establishes that the moral impermissibility of directly attacking non-combatants is not an absolute rule that must be followed in all cases. That prohibition must be considered in the light of the state's right to defend itself and others against aggression. Seen through this prism, the atomic bombing of Hiroshima was morally justified.;This thesis concludes that our continuing possession of nuclear weapons is evidence not only of a world suffering from insecurity, but an acknowledgement that such weapons have important utility, such as for deterrence and defense purposes, and that in extreme circumstances, we must be willing to deploy them.