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I think there's an underlying point to this entire discussion that's been danced around but never really said. I don't know if I've really got my finger on it but try this out:
zen_tom's comments about the use of morality & personal beliefs to generate a fighting force got me thinking......what we really seem to be discussing here is the idea of faith/belief being used as a weapon. Whether it's used as an excuse to defend oneself in battle, or as a reason for starting one, the point is the same....there's always this element of personal beliefs tied to the act of war. Phage's comment that people should believe something strongly enough to go to battle is sort of a double-edged weapon: yes people should be able to believe something that strongly, but no people should not be short-sighted enough so that they start conflict at the drop of a hat. When it comes to engaging in conflict that's not just spur of the moment (ie. I've just been jumped in an alley) everyone has to examine their own personal ideas about what's right and find out how strongly they accept the cause that's presented before them.
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