What principle describes the resistance against following unlawful or immoral orders in military settings?

The principle that describes the resistance against following unlawful or immoral orders in military settings is military discipline. This concept is critical in maintaining the integrity and ethical standards within the armed forces. Military discipline not only encompasses adherence to lawful orders and regulations but also emphasizes the moral obligation to refuse orders that contravene legal or ethical standards.

Service members are trained to recognize the difference between lawful and unlawful orders, and part of their duty is to uphold these standards. This is essential for ensuring that military operations align with both domestic and international law, which ultimately supports the ethical foundation of military service.

While self-discipline and preventive discipline are important for maintaining personal standards and behaviors, and adverse administration addresses the consequences of infractions, military discipline specifically captures the essence of moral and lawful conduct in the face of potentially unlawful directives. This principle ensures that military personnel act justly and accountably, reinforcing the core values of service.