Whitley Kaufman
Papers
1
Total Citations
26
H-Index
1
About
Whitley Kaufman is a leading scholar in the ethics of war and the philosophy of law, whose work critically examines the intersection of technology, morality, and military strategy. His most-cited paper, "Military frameworks: technological know-how and the legitimization of warfare" (2009, 26 citations), challenges the optimistic narrative that precision-guided munitions resolve the ethical tensions of *jus in bello*. Kaufman argues that technological advancements often obscure deeper moral ambiguities, complicating the pursuit of a truly "just war." Beyond this, his research spans just war theory, retributive justice, and the role of intention in moral philosophy. Kaufman’s contributions are notable for their rigorous interrogation of how legal and ethical frameworks adapt—or fail to adapt—to modern warfare. His work has influenced debates among policymakers, ethicists, and military strategists, earning him recognition as a critical voice in applied ethics. For students and researchers, Kaufman offers a sobering reminder that technology alone cannot legitimize conflict; instead, it demands a more nuanced understanding of responsibility and consequence.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1