If every able-bodied American were to experience national service, it would change things dramatically in the country, and the world.
All-professional military tends to become a Praetorian Guard run by the the Executive Branch, which by its nature threatens and manipulates Congress, to the extent even the GOP is beginning to repudiate Bush tactics, as noted in the media today.
The excuses that new recruits can't be used don't wash, there is more than enough to do, our security is decreasing, not increasing. The excuse that they are less trainable doesn't wash, because included in conscription are greater numbers of well to-do than in the volunteer group. These are the ones objected to by the elite, who want painless war (for themselves). These are no more dumb than the less-elite. They may be less motivated ! But that's exactly the point -- all Americans need to be involved in life-and-death matters in our national security, whether they "want to" or not.
In addition, to the extent that the less-educated are conscripted the discipline and cultural issues that flow from military service for every part of society is a plus, without question. |
