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Thursday, July 12, 2012

The Illusory Benefits of Bringing Back the Draft

Writing in Tuesday’s New York Times, Thomas E. Ricks makes a plea for reinstating the draft. His argument is largely based on supposed economic benefits that I find questionable. Here is why.

Ricks’ proposal would expand the draft beyond the military to make it a form of near-universal national service. Under his plan, combat units would continue to be filled by volunteers who would receive full military training, pay, and benefits, much as they do now. In addition, Ricks would add two new categories of service. >>>Read More

Readers who are interested in a longer analysis of the history and economics of conscription may want to consult this nice backgrounder by Joshua C. Hall of Beloit College

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