Drones, Distance, and Death

Abstract

This chapter addresses the topic of drone use via some larger discussions about the moral relevance, if any, of distance. We ask whether the fact of this distance between the agent(s) of harm and the harm(s) caused has any moral relevance, and, if so, what and how? There are two dimensions to this question. One concerns the moral relevance of distance to our actual moral obligations: Does geographical distance per se affect what we are morally obligated or morally permitted to do? The second concerns the effect of distance on the way we perceive our moral obligations and permissions: Does geographical distance, either per se or in conjunction with other factors, affect how we view our moral situation? Does distance influence how we think or feel about what we are morally required and/or permitted to do?