Conscription

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Conscription is a system of compulsory enlistment of people in a national service, most often a military service. Conscription dates back to antiquity and continues in some countries to the present day under various names. The modern system of near-universal national conscription for young men dates to the French Revolution in the 1790s, where it became the basis of a very large and powerful military. Most European nations later copied the system in peacetime, so that men at a certain age would serve 1–8 years on active duty and then transfer to the reserve force.

History[edit | edit source]

Conscription is derived from the Latin conscriptus, which means "to write together." The term was first used in the Roman Empire, where citizens were required to serve in the military. This practice continued throughout the Middle Ages and into the modern era, with many countries adopting some form of conscription.

Modern Conscription[edit | edit source]

In the modern era, conscription has been used in both peacetime and during times of war. During World War I and World War II, many countries implemented conscription to bolster their military forces. Today, some countries still maintain conscription, while others have moved to a volunteer military force.

Conscription by Country[edit | edit source]

Different countries have different rules and regulations regarding conscription. Some countries, like Israel and South Korea, require all citizens to serve in the military for a certain period of time. Other countries, like the United States, have a selective service system in place, but have not used conscription since the Vietnam War.

Arguments for and Against Conscription[edit | edit source]

There are many arguments for and against conscription. Supporters argue that it ensures national security, promotes equality, and instills a sense of civic duty. Critics argue that it infringes on individual rights, is ineffective, and can lead to a militarized society.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Conscription Resources
PubMed
Wikipedia
Medicine-stub.png
This article is a stub related to medicine. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD