LNAT Practice Test Essay – Under what circumstances, if any, can the use of nuclear weapons be justified or excused?

In the LawMint LNAT Practice Test Series for 2024 and 2025, there are 30 full length tests, with 360 passages – 1260 MCQs and 90 essay prompts or essay questions.

The essay below is a sample that can be written for the prompt:

Under what circumstances, if any, can the use of nuclear weapons be justified or excused?

This LNAT essay question is included in LawMint LNAT Practice Test series.

While the model essays may include both sides of an argument, the question may require you to state your stance - either for or against; and support it with arguments.

Read our articles and watch the videos on our YouTube channel for guidance on how to structure and write the LNAT Essay.

Introduction

The use of nuclear weapons is a highly debated and controversial topic. With the potential to cause massive destruction and long-lasting environmental consequences, nuclear weapons have become a symbol of fear and power. This essay will explore the various circumstances under which the use of nuclear weapons could potentially be justified or excused, examining the moral, political, and strategic arguments surrounding this issue.

Deterrence and Self-Defense

One argument in favor of the potential use of nuclear weapons is the concept of deterrence. Deterrence is the idea that the mere existence of a nation’s nuclear arsenal can help prevent other countries from attacking it. By possessing nuclear weapons, a country can create a credible threat of retaliation that discourages adversaries from initiating an attack. In this sense, the use of nuclear weapons could potentially be justified as a form of self-defense if a nation is faced with an imminent, existential threat.

Proponents of deterrence argue that the use of nuclear weapons can be excused if a country is under direct attack or facing an imminent threat that could not be repelled through conventional means. In these cases, the use of nuclear weapons might be seen as a last resort to protect a nation’s sovereignty and the lives of its citizens.

Utilitarianism and the Greater Good

Another argument for the potential justification of using nuclear weapons is based on utilitarian principles. Utilitarianism is a moral theory that emphasizes the importance of maximizing overall happiness and minimizing suffering. From a utilitarian perspective, the use of nuclear weapons could be justified if it results in a greater good or prevents a larger catastrophe.

For example, some argue that the use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II was justified because it led to a quicker end to the war, potentially saving more lives than it took. However, this perspective is highly controversial and has been widely debated.

International Law and the Just War Theory

International law and the Just War Theory also play a significant role in the discussion surrounding the potential justification of using nuclear weapons. The Just War Theory is a set of principles that outlines when it is morally acceptable to engage in war and what actions are permissible during a conflict. According to the Just War Theory, the use of force must meet certain criteria, such as having a just cause, being a last resort, and having a reasonable chance of success.

Under international law, the use of nuclear weapons is heavily regulated and restricted. The International Court of Justice has stated that the use of nuclear weapons would generally be contrary to the principles of international humanitarian law, which governs the conduct of armed conflicts. However, the court has not completely ruled out the possibility that the use of nuclear weapons could be justified in extreme circumstances, such as in self-defense against an imminent and existential threat.

Conclusion

The question of whether the use of nuclear weapons can ever be justified or excused is a complex and morally fraught issue. While some argue that the use of nuclear weapons can be justified under certain circumstances, such as in self-defense or to prevent a greater catastrophe, others contend that the immense destruction and suffering caused by these weapons make their use inherently unjustifiable.

Ultimately, the debate surrounding the use of nuclear weapons highlights the importance of international cooperation, diplomacy, and disarmament efforts to reduce the risk of nuclear conflict. By working together to address the underlying causes of conflict and promote peace, the international community can help ensure that the devastating consequences of nuclear weapons remain confined to the pages of history.