a hypothetical situation

The problem of life and death has recently become a topic of debate, as people from diverse regions have differing perspectives on the subject. Furthermore, because of the complexities of these societies, understanding the various cultures' perspectives on this topic has been a major challenge. Existence, for whatever reason, should be honored and everyone has the freedom to live. This paper attempts to clarify a hypothetical situation in which you could cope with a matter of life and death while preserving the history, values, and traditions of others. Virtually every society, have its belief on what is ethically correct or wrong. To behave morally is to conduct in a way that is consistent with what is right or moral. In this case, the ethical values that led to the intervention of this situation are justice, compassion, and respect for life, responsibility, and justice (Joseph& David 27). Therefore, it is wrong for the military officer to kill because every person has the inherent right to life and no one should rob another person life. Also, the basis of killing these people was not clear since justice was not served According to the officer, he wanted to take their lives since one of their colleagues was shot dead but failed to prove that the culprits were guilty of the act.

The responsibility of life and death implied in this case is that it’s the duty of every person not only to protect life but also should be answerable and ready to face dire consequences in the case of death. Furthermore, the right to life moral principle arises whereby every person has a life to live, and no one should kill another person. Nevertheless, this concept occurs in a debate in this case because the military officer tries to explain that there can never be holier than thou attitude in a civil war (Atkinson 19). Thus, no one should be deprived his life intentionally not unless under execution of a sentence of a court after their conviction of a crime for which the court provides the penalty.

When guilt and innocence is a matter of life and death, then the issue of integrity comes in, and there is such a fine line between life and death. Apparently, it is almost crystal clear that the victims were innocent and were the only culpable agent and victim of circumstance. Thus, when given the rifle to shoot one person and save the rest will present a dilemma because it will be against justice as one of the ethical value. Taking the life of an innocent person is a crime and naturally will subsequently lead to feelings of guilt if you possess excellent values as your morals.

The work of military officer is not to kill but to protect the citizens. However, there are various circumstances under which the officers are allowed to shoot, and this includes general and cultural events. For example, the officer could have justified his action if the culture in that community does not hold life in high regard especially during civil war. Also, the law of that country could have given the military officer authority to kill in case they feel physically endangered. For instance, in this case, the officer could have justified his action by providing the following reason since one of their colleagues died. Nevertheless, justice should always prevail, and this includes proper investigation to ascertain if the victims were guilt

To thoroughly weigh the options available and generate a concrete solution several considerations have to be put in place. For example, developing a comprehensive understanding of the complexity of other cultures when it comes to civil war is paramount in this case (Johnston & Barbara 54). Also, understanding the role of individuals, military officer during a civil war is important because that way you will be able to follow the action of every party. Finally, understanding the patterns of engagement in civic life, social interaction and politics complexity is necessary for a bid of obtaining a comprehensive solution to the situation.

To come up with a solution that fits my ethical standards while respecting the other people’s culture, recognizing the complexity of some of the features and biases in one’s own culture is vital. Explaining your moral values to the officer will save the situation, for example demonstrating the respect for life value and justice will help him to have a different perception when it comes to a matter of life and death. Hence, to resolve this problem understanding between the two parties will be necessary. Justice to these victims should prevail by investigating the matter while taking into consideration of cultural and ethical values.

In conclusion, proper ethical considerations and respect for life should be taken when dealing with an issue of life and death. Identifying the essential elements of one's own culture as well as understanding the complexity of other people's perception is vital in showing intercultural competence when dealing with civil war. Thus, regardless of one’s cultural belief, no one should be robbed of life as all people have inherent right to live.



Works Cited

Atkinson, Carol. "The Role of US Elite Military Schools in Promoting Intercultural Understanding and Democratic Governance. " All Azimuth, vol. 4, no. 2, 2015, 19.

Johnston, Barbara Rose. Life and death matter: human rights, and social justice. Routledge, 2016.

Nye Jr, Joseph S., and David A. Welch. Understanding the global conflict and cooperation: An introduction to theory and history. Pearson, 2016.