Introduction
The United States does not have mandatory military service. The last time the U.S. had a draft was during the Vietnam War, from 1940-1973 (Cohen, 2019, p. 23). The issue of mandatory military service has long been a topic of debate. Proponents assert that it instills discipline, develops leadership skills, and creates a sense of patriotism. Opponents, however, argue that it infringes upon individual rights and freedoms, and can be financially burdensome. Thus, it is crucial to consider the pros and cons of compulsory military service and to consider whether it is necessary.
Pros of Mandatory Military Service
It is important to emphasize the primary benefits that the armed forces can receive if military service is introduced as compulsory. One of the main benefits of mandatory military service is that it instills discipline and fosters a sense of responsibility. Military training is designed to break down the individual and build them back up as a member of a team. Therefore, this process teaches recruits how to follow orders, take responsibility for their actions, and work effectively with others (Griffith & Ben-Ari, 2021). The experience can help young people develop important life skills, including self-discipline and self-confidence, which can be useful in their personal and professional lives.
Mandatory military service can also help to develop leadership skills. Military training emphasizes the importance of leadership, and all recruits are given opportunities to practice leadership skills (Griffith & Ben-Ari, 2021). This can be particularly beneficial for young people who may not have had many opportunities to take on leadership roles in their lives. Additionally, the military provides extensive leadership training to its personnel, which can prepare them for leadership positions in civilian life. Another argument in favor of mandatory military service is that it creates a sense of patriotism and national unity (Griffith & Ben-Ari, 2021). Serving in the military can instill a sense of pride in one’s country and help young people understand the sacrifices that have been made to preserve our freedom. By requiring all citizens to serve in the military, a sense of national unity can be fostered, as people from all walks of life come together to serve their country.
Cons of Mandatory Military Service
Meanwhile, there are disadvantages that may emerge if military service is made mandatory. One of the most common arguments against compulsory military service is that it violates individual rights and freedoms (Puhani & Sterrenberg, 2022). Citizens should have the right to choose whether they want to serve in the army or not. Forcing someone to perform against their will can be seen as violating their fundamental rights. Moreover, compulsory military service can also be financially burdensome. The costs of training and equipping conscripts can be significant, and these costs are ultimately borne by taxpayers (Puhani & Sterrenberg, 2022). In addition, military service can disrupt the lives of young people who may be pursuing their education or starting a career. It would be unjust to force them to interrupt their lives to serve in the army. Another argument opposing compulsory military service is that it can create a binary society (Puhani & Sterrenberg, 2022). Those who are unable or unwilling to serve in the military may be seen as second-class citizens. This can create social tension and resentment between those who have served and those who have not.
Necessity of Compulsory Military Service
The question of whether mandatory military service is necessary is a complex one. On the one hand, mandatory military service can have many benefits, including developing discipline and leadership skills, and fostering a sense of patriotism and national unity. On the other hand, it can be seen as an infringement on individual rights and freedoms, and can be financially burdensome (Cohen, 2019). Ultimately, the question of the relevance of compulsory military service depends on the perspective from which one considers it. If some people consider that it is crucial to instill discipline and patriotism in young individuals, then mandatory military service may be perceived as necessary. If one believes that individual rights and freedoms should take precedence, then compulsory military service may be viewed as unnecessary. Furthermore, if compulsory military service is to be introduced, it is important to ensure that it is fairly and non-discriminatorily enforced (Cohen, 2019). It is also critical to provide support for those who may experience financial or personal hardship as a result of their service.
Conclusion
Hence, the issue of mandatory military service is a contentious one, with arguments for and against it. Proponents argue that it instills discipline, develops leadership skills, and creates a sense of patriotism, while opponents argue that it infringes upon individual rights and freedoms, and can be financially burdensome. Whether or not mandatory military service is necessary depends on one’s perspective. Ultimately, it is for each individual to decide whether they consider compulsory military service necessary or not. However, it is important to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of mandatory military service when making this decision.
References
Cohen, E. A. (2019). Citizens and soldiers: The dilemmas of military service. Cornell University Press.
Griffith, J., & Ben-Ari, E. (2021). Reserve military service: A social constructionist perspective. Armed Forces & Society, 47(4), 635-660. Web.
Puhani, P. A., & Sterrenberg, M. K. (2022). Effects of mandatory military and alternative community service on wages and other socioeconomic outcomes. Kyklos, 75(3), 488-507. Web.