Written in clear, straightforward language, this book looks at why people go to war and whether it is ever right to kill another person. It explains different attitudes to warfare and why wars are such a major part of history. It also looks at peace keeping organisations and conflict resolution.

Contents: What is war?; A brief history of war; Why do wars start?; Why do people fight?; Why do children fight?; Wars and new technology; Colonialism; Exploiting fear; War crimes; Civilians and war; Refugees; After the war; Can war ever be justified?; Are wars reported accurately?; Preventing war and negotiating peace; Resolving conflicts.