ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates the Doctrine of Double Effect (DDE) and explains how it can give inconsistent or undesirable guidance if not properly understood. It shows that how the theory of autonomy can illuminate the moral insights behind DDE. The chapter argues for a conception of DDE that incorporates principles generated from autonomy. It also argues that soldiers must adopt a positive maxim to protect noncombatants and that the adoption of this maxim involves a willingness on the part of soldiers to accept risk in order to avoid harming noncombatants. The chapter examines some wars in order to show how a proper understanding of DDE should inform our decisions and judgments about the use of force. It also examines facets of some recent wars to more fully expose the force and limitations of DDE. The chapter analyses to lay the groundwork for a reexamination of the propriety of some of our contemporary ways of making war.
