[steve-b]

The principle of "the ends justifying the means" is choosing to do evil in order that good may come.

For example, killing people in the Normandy invasion (evil) so that Europe may be liberated (good).

I take it you believe that FDR was wrong to order it, and Eisenhower on down were wrong to participate in it.

[Aquinasfan]

For example, killing people in the Normandy invasion (evil) so that Europe may be liberated (good).

I take it you believe that FDR was wrong to order it, and Eisenhower on down were wrong to participate in it.

You can look into just war theory if you like. The actions of the State are regarded differently from the actions of individuals, since the object of State action is the preservation of the common good.

It's ironic that you chose this example. How do libertarians justify sending some people off to war to fight and die? Do soldiers fight to preserve the common good, or their personal rights to life and property?

Wouldn't libertarian soldiers be violating the first principle of steve-b's ethics?