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About this quote

What does it mean?
The author notes that conscription is alien to America, where military service is paid and voluntary.
In plain terms
America prefers paid, voluntary enlistment.
What can you take from it?
Cultural norms shape military recruitment.

Where it applies

  • policy debate
  • military history

Putting it to work

  • compare recruitment models
  • study cultural attitudes

Questions to consider

  • Why do societies choose different recruitment methods?
  • What values underlie these choices?

Another view

The statement may overlook historical periods where conscription was considered.

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