The Time for War

War at times may be necessary. If two states have such differing and irreconcilable differences that results in the two sides'perpetual dissatisfaction, then war may be necessary. For example, I would deem the Civil War necessary. The country was deeply divided over the issue of slavery. The country needed to stand as one, or split in two; either way, it could not remain as it did. Years and years of debate were unable to convince enough to people to allow for complete abolition or complete legalization. They only way to settle the argument was war.

Countries may also have a responsibility to go to war. If the United States is officially an ally of Britain, and Britain gets bombed and goes to war, the U.S. is obligated to support and potentially enter the war on Britain's behalf.

War must always be the final resort of a country. The Civil War was delayed many decades because of temporary compromises throughout the first half of the 19th century. The urge to fight was always less than the urge to compromise until fighting was absolutely inevitable. If war is last option, it is unnecessary as simple debate and compromise would be just as effective and spare the resources and lives of each side.