The Principle of Distinction

Abstract The principle of distinction (or discrimination) has been a pillar of any major version of the doctrine of just war, being one of the two principles of jus in bello. That principle was presented, illustrated, interpreted, explained, defended, and developed in Michael Walzer's seminal book Just and Unjust Wars, in its several editions as well as in his recent Arguing about War. The purpose of the present paper is to reconsider current understanding of the principle, which owes much to Walzer's important contribution to the philosophical tradition of the doctrine of just war.