[New podcast episode] Ancient traditions and the rules of modern warfare

What can ancient philosophies, theologies and laws teach us about ethical warfare today? In a brand new JurisDictions podcast episode on international law, researcher and podcast host Carl Lewis takes you on a spiritual journey to the roots of international humanitarian law (IHL). 

How have Dharmic traditions, such as in Buddhism and Hinduism, engaged with principles of humanity in warfare, long before the codification of international humanitarian law with the Geneva Conventions? What role do the principles of humanity, distinction and proportionality play in the law of armed conflict? How does the element of storytelling in the Sanskrit epics contribute to the dissemination of ethical values? How has religion influenced International Humanitarian Law, specifically the implementation of humanitarian principles?
By reflecting on various historical roots and traditions of humanitarian principles, the episode seeks to encourage engagement with the evolution and applications of the laws of armed conflict.

Joined by Dr. Robert Heinsch, Dr. Raj Balkaran, and Dr. Christina Kilby, the podcast considers key IHL concepts such as collateral damage and proportionality. It also explores what ancient philosophies, theologies, and laws can teach us about ethical warfare today.

Listen now

Guests:
Dr Robert Heinsch, Associate Professor in International Law at Leiden University
Dr Raj Balkaran, Scholar of Sanskrit Narrative Literature, Public Intellectual, Online Educator
Dr Christina Kilby, Associate Professor of Religion at James Madison University

Hosts:
Dr Carl Lewis, Researcher in Public International Law, TMC Asser Institute
Wamika Sachdev, Intern, Asser Institute

JurisDictions is available on Apple, Spotify and most podcast platforms. Subscribe now.

Dr Carl Emilio Lewis LL.M.