American Philosophical Association Resolution: Philosophers Vote Overwhelmingly Against the War

February 2003: From the Eastern Division of the APA (American Philosophical Association). A postal ballot of the members of the largest professional philosophy society in the country voted against the war on Iraq.

Resolution:

Resolved, that members of the Eastern Division of the American Philosophical Association express our serious doubts about the morality, legality and prudence of a war against Iraq led by the United States. Both just war theory and international law say that states may resort to war only in self-defense. Iraq has not attacked the United States, and claims that it is about to do so are not credible. Even in the absence of imminent threat, the United States claims a preemptive justification for war in this case. This claim stretches the meaning of preemption beyond reasonable bounds and sets a dangerous precedent which other states may feel free to follow.

A war waged by the United States against Iraq will be costly in lives, both Iraqi and American, and probably those of other nations. It will likely create disorder leading to more suffering of innocent people in the long term, both within Iraq and elsewhere. It will cost American taxpayers many billions of dollars that would better be used for humane purposes at home and abroad.

The resolution passed, with 1,202 voting in favor and 263 opposed.