Soldiers must be trained to act according to their military code of ethics even in challenging situations where the moral choices are difficult. In combat environments, they may have to make quick decisions that go against traditional moral standards but still protect themselves and their allies. They may need to follow orders from superiors who give them instructions that violate their personal values. Relational ethics help soldiers stay focused on what is right and wrong while under pressure. This can improve their performance and reduce the risk of making mistakes that could harm themselves and others.
Here are some examples of how relational ethics help soldiers maintain morality in high-stress situations:
1. Valuing life - Soldiers should always prioritize the preservation of human life. Even if someone poses a threat, killing them without justification can lead to severe consequences.
During the Vietnam War, U.S. soldiers were told to shoot anyone suspected of being a Viet Cong. Many followed these orders out of fear or duty despite knowing it was immoral. By valuing all lives equally, soldiers can avoid such tragedies.
2. Respect for others - When interacting with people from different cultures, soldiers should respect their traditions and beliefs. This helps build trust and prevent misunderstandings. It also prevents retaliation from people who feel threatened by foreigners. During World War II, German and American soldiers often found themselves fighting side by side in Europe after surrendering together. They had mutual respect for each other's cultural differences, which led to better cooperation.
3. Honesty - Soldiers must be honest about their actions even when it's inconvenient or risky. Lying leads to distrust, miscommunications, and increased danger. During the Battle of the Bulge, many Germans pretended to surrender but then attacked Allied forces once they got close enough. The Americans didn't believe them and shot them on sight, creating unnecessary casualties on both sides. Being truthful is essential to building trust and protecting yourself and your allies.
4. Self-control - In war zones, emotions run high, making it tempting to act impulsively.
This can lead to recklessness that harms innocent civilians or friendly forces. By staying calm and rational, soldiers can make sound decisions that benefit everyone involved.
During Operation Iraqi Freedom, some U.S. troops were disciplined for shooting at unarmed civilians without justification.
5. Teamwork - Working together as a team promotes unity, strengthens relationships, and improves morale. Each soldier has unique skills and experiences that contribute to success. When working with others, you may need to give up personal glory for the greater good. During the Korean War, U.S. soldiers sacrificed their lives to save wounded comrades rather than retreat from enemy fire. This selfless act inspired others to do the same, leading to victory in the battle.
Relational ethics are crucial for maintaining moral standards under pressure. They help soldiers stay focused on what is right despite stressful situations by valuing life, respecting others, being honest, controlling themselves, and working together as a team. Following these guidelines can improve performance and reduce risks of harming oneself and others while also preserving one's integrity.
How do soldiers maintain relational ethics in morally ambiguous and high-stress situations?
One way for soldiers to maintain relational ethics in morally ambiguous and high-stress situations is by developing strong relationships with their fellow soldiers and their commanding officers. These relationships can provide them with support and guidance when making difficult decisions and navigating complex situations on the battlefield.