Why is there such a thing as war crimes?

[Sneaky lurker]

Makes no sense at all to me. If you are out to kill the enemy, why do you need to do it in a kosher way? Why are flamethrowers banned? Why is torture haram? Why is genocide a bad thing? Legitimately, it is a logical, genuine strategy. If you have a problem with a group of people, the easiest way to resolve all conflict with them for all of time is to destroy them completely. Why is bombing hospitals and schools seen in a bad light? It only makes sense to do that.
Who decides these things? Why do you get charged as a war criminal for being good at your job as a soldier?

 

[rel=alternate]

I have to admit I never really understood this as a kid. It just did not really make sense.

My best guess is that in the spirit of reciprocal benefits for population. Where war is not seen as a tactic for total annihilation as much as it is annihilation and takeover of the governing party.

It's somewhat in the best interest of all participants to lay ground rules that will allow for recovery, whichever party ends up winning.

 

[Farsided]

You don't get charged for war crimes so long as you win.

Follow for more hot tips.

 

[Tablet County]

I dunno I don't think rape is really a necessary facet of warfare.

 

[OrionBalls]

Because of Canada.

 

[McMitch]

Like a lot of stupid shit to spread out of Europe, the fault lies at the feet of the Austrians.

 

[Cat tit bingo]

Like all law it's to dissuade people from do stuff you really don't want them to do to you. Essentially for modern war crimes we saw what the Japanese where doing and responded with a resounding "FUCK THAT!" before their prompt nuclear rehabilitation.

 

[ForgedBlades]