[jacquesm]

I really don't care if they are convinced of the righteousness of their cause. History is rife with examples of people who were convinced of the righteousness, that does not excuse them even a little bit.

> Most of us are very lucky insofar as we do not have to face such tough choices.

That's why we talk about the ones who did. Since conscription in the US ended quite a while ago all of this is free choice.

[Topolomancer]

Fair enough; you have given me a lot to think about---thank you!

One more thing, though: I am not sure it is always that much of a free choice (even given the fact that no conscription exists). There might be economic reasons for joining the military, for example. However, since I am not a U.S. citizen, I am not sure how much of an issue this actually is.

[jacquesm]

We had conscription here back in the 80's when my number came up I refused to join the army. There was a considerable price to pay including a possible jail term but there is nothing that would cause me to go and kill/harm others without a good enough reason.

[Topolomancer]

Interesting! I admire the strength of your moral conviction! Having grown up in a generation without conscription (I did not even have a normal military service, thankfully).

[jacquesm]

Mine was one of the last years that it was still active.