The military's core value system is built around honor, loyalty, integrity, selflessness, duty, respect, personal courage, and justice. These values are the bedrock of what it means to be an officer or soldier in the armed forces. Soldiers are expected to live up to these standards not just during peacetime but also in times of war, even if their lives are on the line.
Conflict can arise when one's personal values collide with military ethical demands.
Suppose a soldier believes that torturing prisoners for information is morally wrong but is ordered to do so by a superior officer. In this case, they may struggle with their conscience and how to navigate relational communication with others who support torture. How can soldiers balance their moral beliefs while still fulfilling their duties as members of the military? This article will explore some strategies for navigating this challenging situation.
One strategy for dealing with this conflict is to communicate openly and honestly with those involved. Soldiers should express their concerns about why they feel uncomfortable with certain actions without making assumptions or judgments. They can explain that their values guide them, and they cannot violate them. By doing this, they show that they are not trying to defy authority or challenge orders but simply following their moral compass. It can help build trust and understanding between soldiers and their commanders while maintaining relationships within the unit.
Another strategy is to seek guidance from superiors. If a soldier feels unsure about how to proceed, they can ask for clarification or advice from their chain of command. Their commander may have additional insight into the situation, such as potential consequences of inaction or other options for obtaining information. By seeking counsel, soldiers demonstrate respect for leadership while exploring ways to reconcile their values with military ethics.
It can be helpful for soldiers to find allies within the unit who share similar views. When people understand each other's perspectives, they can work together towards solutions that benefit everyone.
If a group of soldiers believes torturing prisoners is wrong, they might propose alternative methods for gathering intelligence that do not violate their morals. Through collaboration, they could create a solution that satisfies both parties while upholding ethical standards.
Navigating relational communication when experiencing conflict between personal values and military ethical demands requires thoughtfulness, honesty, and creativity. Soldiers must communicate openly and honestly with others while also seeking guidance from superiors and finding common ground with those who share their beliefs.
These strategies can help maintain relationships within the unit while preserving one's conscience.
How do soldiers navigate relational communication when experiencing conflict between personal values and military ethical demands?
Soldiers can experience a range of conflicts between their personal values and military ethical demands due to various factors such as cultural background, upbringing, social norms, family expectations, and individual beliefs. When faced with these conflicting situations, they often engage in relational communication to manage their dilemma by establishing boundaries, seeking support from others, understanding different perspectives, negotiating compromises, and finding creative solutions.