Accession Number:

AD1175853

Title:

Universal Service as a Tool for Nation Building

Descriptive Note:

[Technical Report, Research Paper]

Corporate Author:

MARINE CORPS COMMAND AND STAFF COLL QUANTICO VA

Personal Author(s):

• Fiduccia, Jason M.

Report Date:

2015-04-21

Pagination or Media Count:

40

Abstract:

Universal national service can serve as a tool to complement a whole of government approach to nation building because of its ability to unite people in a common purpose and its inherent accompanying economic stimulus. States involved in nation building efforts should consider using universal service as a tool to help improve national unity, stabilize a countrys social and economic conditions, and undermine insurgency movements. This essay first explores the idea of national identity by explaining the key factors that lead to identity formation with emphasis on the links between national identity, citizenship, and public service. Further discussion describes how service can promote positive social interaction between different ethnic groups, arguing that socialization and intergroup contact occurring through universal service can help to reduce ethnic strife in diverse societies. The essay then explores ways in which universal national service can undermine insurgent threats by fostering economic growth, improving literacy and education, and helping to gain the loyalty of neutral populations. Finally, this essay seeks to identify when, how, and under what circumstances universal service can be a viable option as a tool in nation building.

Descriptors:

Subject Categories:

• Military Forces and Organizations
• Government and Political Science
• Sociology and Law

Distribution Statement:

[A, Approved For Public Release]