Impact of Economic Forces on Manning America's 21st Century Army
Abstract
Over 30 years after President Nixon delivered on his campaign promise to eliminate conscription, the Nation faces challenges in a world far different than those it faced in the early 1970s. Today, events that occur half way around the world are much more likely to affect U.S. economic health and national security. Globalization expands the challenge of protecting U.S. national interests tremendously and requires persistent diplomatic, economic, and military investment. For the first time, the U.S. Army finds itself obligated to large-scale, long-term persistent conflict lasting multiple decades. A healthy U.S. economy could fund increasing military obligations associated with globalization. However, decades of enjoying a standard of living beyond the Nation's means will force elected officials to lead citizens though a period of comprehensive sacrifice to reclaim U.S. fiscal health. Conscription has traditionally lacked popularity in the United States, but might prove to be one of the more popular options for regaining U.S. fiscal health. Economic forces facing the United States as it grapples with unprecedented national debt, spiraling health costs, and unfunded Social Security obligations may force the Nation to tolerate a period of conscription while it tightens its fiscal belt.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 21, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA479063
Entities
People
- Marcus A. Cochran
Organizations
- United States Army War College