On Obedience: Contrasting Philosophies for the Military, Citizenry, and Community - Paperback

by Pauline Shanks Kaurin (Author)

This volume offers a deep and nuanced philosophical examination of obedience, particularly in the context of the military profession and its relationship to civilian political life. Philosopher Pauline Shanks Kaurin explores the nature of obedience--its moral foundations, whether it should be considered a virtue, and under what conditions it is ethically justified or unjustified. She addresses critical questions such as, What are the responsibilities of soldiers and citizens when orders conflict with moral principles? Can disobedience ever be a duty? How should obedience be understood in modern democratic societies?

Drawing on a wide array of disciplines--including philosophy, classical studies, political theory, literature, military history, and international relations--Kaurin uses real-world and historical cases to illuminate the ethical complexities at play. Although the primary focus is on military obedience, the book also explores parallels within broader civic life and democratic participation, raising timely questions about authority, moral agency, and civil-military relations. On Obedience offers valuable insight for anyone interested in ethics, leadership, citizenship, and the responsibilities that come with power and service.

Author Biography

Pauline Shanks Kaurin holds a PhD in philosophy from Temple University, specializing in military ethics, just war theory, and applied ethics. She is a Senior Research Associate at the Inamori International Center for Ethics and Excellence at Case Western Reserve University. She served as the Stockdale Chair and Professor of Professional Military Ethics at the U.S. Naval War College in the College of Leadership and Ethics from 2018-2025. She holds a BA in philosophy and international relations from Concordia College, MN, and an MA in philosophy from the University of Manitoba, Winnipeg. Recent publications include Achilles Goes Asymmetrical (2014) and On Obedience (Naval Institute Press, 2020). She lives in southwestern Montana.