The Selective Service Act was created during World War I to temporarily increase the size of the United States army. Creation of this conscription established a precedent and American men were drafted into wars for the next several decades. In recent years, some Americans have argued that the draft should be reinstated. After reading your text, viewing the provided materials, and the two articles specifically concerning the draft, answer the following questions: Do you favor or oppose instituting a draft? Does a draft offer any benefits to the country? If a draft was created, what would this new draft look like? Who would be included/ not included?
The Selective Service Act
Cons of a draft:
- A draft can violate an individual's right to choose whether or not to serve in the military.
- A draft can be unfair to those who are drafted, as they may be forced to leave their families and jobs to serve in the military.
- A draft can lead to resentment and protests, as those who are drafted may feel that they are being forced to fight a war that they do not support.
If a draft were to be created, it would likely look similar to the current Selective Service System. All male citizens and non-citizens living in the United States between the ages of 18 and 25 would be required to register with the Selective Service. If a draft were called, men would be selected for service through a lottery system.
There are a number of factors that could be considered when deciding who would be included or excluded from a draft. These factors could include age, health, education, and family status. Ultimately, the decision of who would be included or excluded from a draft would be a complex one that would need to be made by the government.
Personally, I am undecided on whether or not I support a draft. I believe that there are both pros and cons to consider, and the decision of whether or not to institute a draft is a difficult one. Ultimately, I think that the decision should be made on a case-by-case basis, depending on the specific circumstances.
Pros of a draft:
- A draft can help to ensure that the military has the manpower it needs to defend the country in a time of war.
- A draft can help to create a more equitable military, as it would not be based on an individual's ability to pay for a college education or other factors.
- A draft can help to build national unity, as it would require all Americans to contribute to the defense of the country.