Chinese perspectives on the ad bellum/in bello relationship and a cultural critique of the ad bellum/in bello separation in international humanitarian law

Abstract The intriguing relationship between jus ad bellum and in bello has provoked perennial academic debates. This article examines this issue from Chinese perspectives offers a cultural critique of the well-entrenched norm / separation international humanitarian law. Based on its distinctive traditional perception world order meaning war, China embraces holistic understanding relationship. is construed as essentially harmonized. cardinal moral principle underpinning it that just war should be conducted way. law Western origin, rationale behind intimates sensitivity to European tradition which was parasitic . It assumed are irreconcilably conflict once they come into contact with one another. assumption followed by widely-held belief any attempt reconnect two concepts would bring nothing but subordination experienced and, consequently, collapse former. nevertheless evidence conventional line thinking, hampering scholars thinking beyond sealed separation, not sound. A proposal for more constructive solution taken consideration.