This book investigates the moral legitimacy of self-defense as a primary justification for engaging in war. David Rodin, a scholar in moral and political philosophy, synthesizes concepts from legal theory and political science to challenge the traditional reliance on self-defense in international conflict. He constructs a rigorous theoretical framework that addresses the inconsistencies and ethical dilemmas inherent in current justifications for state-sanctioned violence.

Scholars and legal theorists frequently cite this work as a significant contribution to the ethics of war and international relations. Readers often note the high level of academic rigor and the dense, analytical nature of the arguments presented throughout the text.