The age old question 'Is War Justified?'

I was just asked my opinion on war on another website (student center) and that has promted me to ask a similar question here.
Do you feel there is a justified reason for nations to resort to violence and war?
(There are no wrong answers here, I am just interested in everyone's opinions)

OK, so here's my opinion then (a short version)

Although head of governments feel there is a point in fighting to resolve arguments I see no justification in this theory. These leaders are not on the battle field fighting 'for their country', instead they are locked safely behind guards and shelters. Only appearing to give spirit speeches to the media and so called 'updates' on how well their side is doing. They do not see the suffering first hand, or watch their best friend die fighting.

At a young age in school playgrounds worldwide, children are taught that fighting resolves nothing. How can they be expected to believe this when they see adults fighting around them daily?

Let me know what you think.

Nici

I think war should always be a last resort. Clearly the token "war" going on right now in Iraq is a fascade for the expansion of the American empire, but some wars needed to be fought.

For example, the only reason i have the freedom to be sitting here talking about war is because my grand and greatgrandparents fought two wars to stop the Nazi's taking over the world...now can anyone say they shouldn't have fought?. Not me.

If you are defending a hostile attacker, then i think it's ok to fight back...invading another country is never right.

But we are mice and men, and the reality of such things is far away from us armchair philosophers.

I agree war is necessary sometimes but I don't like it...but I just wanted to share this little quote...

Bombing for Peace is like Screwing for Virginity.

no

yes and no. it depends what the war is all about and if its worth fighting for. but im moreso on the no side because i don't like war.

The only thing that justifies war is if you're only participating to defend yourself. Obviously, if there are bombs being dropped on the heads of innocence, then you can't just sit there and be like "oh, war's bad, so I won't fight..."