The idea that some groups of people are denied access to basic rights and opportunities has been a central concern in the political debate for decades. One such right is the ability to serve in the armed forces, which may be restricted based on factors like physical fitness, criminal history, mental health, or age.
There is also an important issue related to the concept of exclusions, namely how they can impact social integration and national identity. This essay will explore this issue in detail.
As far back as ancient Greece, military service was seen as one way to achieve full citizenship status. In ancient Athens, for example, all men were required to participate in public life, including serving in the army. The same held true for Sparta, where every citizen was required to join the military and learn about fighting. Military service allowed individuals to become part of their society's core values, beliefs, and traditions, helping them feel more connected to their country. Today, however, many countries have made exceptions to this rule, creating an exclusionary system that separates those who cannot serve from those who can.
While it is easy to understand why governments might want to exclude certain individuals from joining the military - for example, those with severe medical conditions - the consequences of doing so extend beyond just individual lives. By denying someone the opportunity to serve in the military, governments are effectively preventing that person from becoming fully integrated into society. Exclusionary policies make these individuals feel less valued and marginalized by their communities.
Individuals with disabilities often face stigma and discrimination that makes it difficult for them to find work outside of the military; if they are excluded from serving due to their disability, they may struggle to integrate into civilian life.
Veterans returning from war may face difficulties integrating back into civilian life because of the experiences they had while on active duty.
Exclusion from military service can contribute to a sense of national identity crisis. When only some groups are allowed to serve in the military, there is often a feeling among others that they are not as important or valuable as those who do. This can lead to divisions within a nation, making it harder for people to come together around common goals and aspirations. It can also create resentment between those who served and those who did not, leading to social tension. This was seen during World War II, when draft dodgers were vilified and viewed as cowards by some segments of American society. In contrast, conscientious objectors who refused to fight in Vietnam faced similar treatment.
Exclusion from military service has far-reaching effects that go beyond simply denying individuals access to a particular career path. It can impact social integration and national identity, making it more difficult for everyone involved to achieve a shared sense of purpose and belonging. Governments should carefully consider how exclusions impact both individual lives and societal cohesion before implementing such policies.
How does exclusion from military service affect social integration and national identity?
Exclusion from military service can have significant effects on an individual's sense of social integration and national identity, depending on their personal circumstances and broader societal contexts. In some cases, individuals who are not eligible for military service may feel marginalized or disconnected from their society and community due to perceived differences in physical or mental abilities, age, gender, or other factors that exclude them from military service.