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In many countries, citizens are required to serve in the military for a year or more. Do you believe the United

States should institute a similar practice? Why or why not?

User Proppy
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2 Answers

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Final answer:

The debate on whether the U.S. should have compulsory military service involves different social and ethical considerations. Compulsory service in other countries serves specific national goals, while the U.S. relies on voluntary service and registration for Selective Service. Opinions on this subject vary widely and are influenced by values of national unity, individual freedom, and national defense.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question of whether the United States should institute compulsory military service is complex and entails various social, political, and ethical considerations. In countries like Egypt, Switzerland, Turkey, and Singapore, compulsory service is a phase of the life course that citizens, often males, are expected to undergo. This typically involves a number of months or years of military training and service. Conversely, while the U.S. does not currently require military service, it does require all males to register for Selective Service when they turn 18, with the possibility of including females in the future.

Arguments for compulsory military service often include beliefs that such service promotes national unity, discipline, and readiness. Meanwhile, opponents may argue it infringes on individual freedom, and that there are other ways to create a strong military without mandating service. The idea of compulsory military service on balancing these values with national defense needs and principles of personal liberty.

Overall, Americans agree that our nation needs a strong military, but the consensus on the method to maintain such a force varies greatly, with views ranging from voluntary service to mandatory conscription. The comparison of international practices with the U.S. approach shows a diversity of strategies based on different national priorities and values.

User Joncalhoun
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Answer:

As to your question, mandatory military service (aka the draft) has been done here in the past. And apart from a world war, it shouldn't be used.

The reason I say that is when a draft is in place, you have people who are serving who have no desire to be there. When you have that, disciplinary problems increase, desertion and AWOL rates go up. Commanders then have to deal with the malcontents through various punishments, which consume an inordinate amount of time.

Further, you would have to increase the size of the Military Police to deal with the increases in disciplinary problems and the resultant crime. It all adds up to a bad situation.

We have never fielded a more professional military prior to the all volunteer military. These folks serve willingly and are less likely to have disciplinary problems. They also take their craft seriously and perform at a better standard than in decades past when we did have a draft.

Step-by-step explanation:

User Stefan Vasiljevic
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