Friday, March 03, 2006

Friday Essay Question

The 13th Amendment says that "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist anywhere in the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction."

The military has, in times past, used a draft to ensure a full contingent of soldiers. Additionally, in times of crisis, the military has adopted a "stop loss" policy, which freezes soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines from separating at the end of their enlistment, involuntarily extending their enlistment until trained replacements become available (this was in effect, inter alia in 1999, 2001, and 2003).

The essay question for today:

Is it hypocritical for the Federal Government to put in place a draft or stop loss program which compels involuntary service upon Citizens of the United States? When, if ever, should such a policy exist? Do the obligations to the country outweigh the obligations to the family, or the individual?

Again, I am looking for the best answer, not necessarily a right answer. Grades will be arbitrary and capricious.

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