Americans View the Military: A 1984 Update.
Abstract
Results from supplementary questions added to the annual General Social Survey indicated that support for a peacetime military draft declined from 44 percent in 1982 to an all-time low of 24 percent in 1984. At the same time, 84 percent of the public would approve of a return to the draft in case of national emergency. Satisfaction with the All-Volunteer Force increased from 63 percent to 84 percent over the same period, and the proportion who assign favorable ratings to the quality of military personnel rose from 53 percent to 72 percent. Attitudes toward military spending declined from 31 percent to 19 percent, while opposition to further increase rose from 32 percent to 38 percent. Responses to nine other questions concerning public opinion revealed no significant change over the two-year period. Majorities continued to favor compulsory national service for youth and to approve the recruiting of women and minorities to the Armed Forces. About two-thirds of the public maintained the belief that the United States should take an active part in world affairs. Data on public opinion concerning military service as a moral obligation, the educational role of the Armed Forces, expectations of military futures are also provided.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA185415
Entities
People
- James A. Davis
- Paul B. Sheatsley
Organizations
- NORC at the University of Chicago