This thesis concludes that our continuing possession of nuclear weapons is evidence not only of a world suffering from insecurity, but an acknowledgement that such weapons have important utility, such as for deterrence and defense purposes, and that in extreme circumstances, we must be willing to deploy them. Seen through this prism, the atomic bombing of Hiroshima was morally justified. That prohibition must be considered in the light of the state's right to defend itself and others against aggression. As well, this thesis establishes that the moral impermissibility of directly attacking non-combatants is not an absolute rule that must be followed in all cases. The options available to him were distressing and his decision to drop the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, considering the dire situation, was well within reason and, admirably, proved prescient. The detailed review and analysis of the history behind the Hiroshima bombing reveal that President Truman was a prisoner of circumstances that existed in the summer of 1945. It then applies the relevant criteria to the facts to determine the appropriate conclusion. It compares and contrasts historical records, evidence, and the views of leading historians. This inquiry uses a qualitative approach to study the available information and interpretations related to the Hiroshima bombing. In determining whether the atomic bombing of Hiroshima was a just decision, this thesis examines that fateful decision through the prism of Just War Theory and the Natural Law traditions of the individual's Right to Life and the state's Right to Independence and concludes that it was a just decision. 66,000 people were killed, and 69,000 injured. More than 4 square miles of the city were instantly and completely devastated. In examining whether the atomic bombing was a reasonable decision, this thesis analyzes the important variables and competing interests that President Truman considered and concludes that the atomic bombing was a sensible and rational choice and, therefore, reasonable. On August 6th, 1945, at 8:15 A.M., Japanese time, a B-29 heavy bomber flying at high altitude dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima. Many critics of the atomic bombing also argue that the decision failed to meet the "discrimination" and "proportionality" criteria set forth in Just War Theory (specifically, jus in bello or conduct during war) and, therefore, must be deemed an immoral act. The judgments of historians regarding the atomic bombing of Hiroshima during World War II can be grouped into two opposing camps: those who believe President Truman made the right choice and those who decry that decision, believing that other options were ignored and the motives presented for dropping the bomb were suspect. Thesis (M.A.L.S.)-Georgetown University, 2010.
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