- Question
Should military conscription be banned?
Conscription, also known as compulsory military service, is the practice of requiring military service of all qualifying individuals within a nation. Chiefly known for having been employed during the First and Second World Wars, the duration of modern-day conscription can range anywhere from two weeks to two years. But does conscription foster hyper-nationalism and unhealthy aggression? Is the government sending the message that war is inevitable? Or is conscription simply a means of building character and strength?
Yes, military conscription should be banned.
This position holds that military conscription should be banned. It argues that forced service violates free will and treats young people's bodies as state property, that it is costly and lowers the quality of the armed forces, and that it can cause lasting harm to conscripts' lives.
- The quality of military service is heavily compromised
- Military conscription objectifies young people's bodies
- Military conscription violates free will
- Military conscription interferes with important aspects of a person's life
- Military service can cause long-lasting health problems
- Military conscription is money consuming
No, military conscription should not be banned
This position holds that military conscription should not be banned. It argues conscription serves a nation's security and welfare, gives recruits useful skills and discipline, fosters national unity and pride, and promotes equality by drawing citizens of all backgrounds into shared service.
It depends; military conscription may be appropriate or inappropriate in certain circumstances
The answer to this question depends on the circumstances the nation is facing at the time.