Overview
Nonlethal weapons raise significant ethical questions about the future conduct of war. This analysis examines key concerns and potential responses.
Core Ethical Concerns
Misleading terminology: The term "nonlethal" is potentially misleading—these weapons can kill individuals just as a well-placed rifle shot need not be fatal. National Institute of Justice now labels them "less-than-lethal," acknowledging low probability but possible fatalities from misuse or exceptional cases.
Degree of suffering: Determining how much suffering these weapons produce is difficult without empirical data. Proponents stress nonlethality, but skepticism is warranted for any weapon system.
Historical Precedents
Weapons have been deemed too horrible to use throughout history:
- Crossbow (historical)
- Blinding lasers and landmines (contemporary)
- Chemical and biological weapons (strong non-use taboos)
The question is whether this moment represents a watershed for banning nonlethal weapons before deployment.
Legal Framework Considerations
Existing arms control measures: Some nonlethal weapons are already subject to existing treaties:
- 1995 Inhumane Weapons Convention conference agreement on blinding lasers
- Chemical and biological-based nonlethal weapons covered by full-scale war bans
Indiscriminate effects concern: Nonlethal weapons of the second type (infrastructure targeting) may be even more indiscriminate than conventional weapons. Knocking out electrical power could affect civilians, creating ethical dilemmas about proportionality.
Policy Responses
1. Ban before deployment: Negotiate treaties while R&D is in early stages and sunk costs are low
2. Strengthen existing frameworks: Reaffirm applicable international laws
3. Develop counterstrategies: Study technologies to plan effective responses if nonlethal weapons are used against U.S. interests
Sources
Sislin, John (1998). "Non-Lethal Weapons Implications for Post-Cold War Conflict." Department of Political Science, Bowling Green State University. Available at: https://irl.umsl.edu/cis/89