No state has an inherent right to survive through conscript troops and, in the long run, no state ever has. Roman matrons used to say to their sons: 'Come back with your shield, or on it.' Later on, this custom declined. So did Rome.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Heinlein argues that states relying on conscription lose the support of their citizens, leading to eventual decline.
- In plain terms
- States that force people to fight often lose their freedom and fall.
- What can you take from it?
- Voluntary service builds stronger nations than forced conscription.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does conscription affect civilian loyalty?
- What replaces the Roman custom today?
Another view
Some states survive long periods with conscription due to external threats.
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