Young People Are Resisting

Young People Are Resisting

It’s ill-mannered to point a finger at someone we were taught. It’s more ill-mannered to use a pointing finger to con, persuade, influence and sway young men to sign up and fight capitalism’s conflicts for it.

Lord Kitchener, Secretary of War during World War One was featured on a propaganda poster pointing his finger and exhorting, (threatening?) those viewing it. Under his picture were the words ‘Wants You. Join your country’s army! God save the king.’ This appeal to patriotism, or stupidity, was considered an effective way of persuading British young men to voluntarily enlist. Based on this original, there were many other capitalist states who issued similar brainwashing images.

Young people today are often more informed and critical of the narratives presented to them.

This resistance often manifests in various ways, including protests, activism, and vocal opposition to policies they perceive as unjust or outdated.

So well done Youth Demand!

Youth Demand

Mike Martin, a veteran of the Afghanistan conflict and the Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Tunbridge Wells, issued a serious caution to the British public as Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine continues unabated.

Mike Martin advocates for the UK government to contemplate the reintroduction of conscription. He argues that the current geopolitical climate necessitates a robust defence strategy, which may involve mobilising a larger segment of the population to ensure national security.

I think young people today in this Modern Age are not as gullible as they once were, they are better educated to know better that's why there is so much talk of "Conscription" in the media, and from politicians Army generals.

Indeed, young people today are often more informed and critical of the narratives presented to them, thanks in large part to the accessibility of information through the internet and social media. This heightened awareness allows them to question authority, scrutinise motives, and engage in discussions about the implications of war, nationalism, and economic systems.

The conversation on the other hand from young people is around "construction" and reflects a desire for building a better future, focusing on peace, sustainability, and social justice rather than conflict. Many young individuals are drawn to movements that advocate for constructive solutions to global issues, such as climate change, inequality, and systemic injustice. They recognise the importance of collaboration over conflict and see the value in collective action to address these pressing challenges.

Furthermore, contemporary education emphasises critical thinking and media literacy, equipping young people with the tools to analyse and deconstruct propaganda and persuasive messaging. This shift in mindset represents a significant departure from previous generations who may have been more susceptible to simplistic appeals to patriotism or duty.

As a result, the discourse has evolved from one of blind allegiance to a more nuanced understanding of the complexities of global conflicts and the responsibilities of citizenship. Young people are increasingly advocating for dialogue, empathy, and innovative approaches to problem-solving, demonstrating that they are not just passive recipients of information but active participants in shaping the future.

The discussion around conscription today often reflects a broader awareness among young people about the implications of mandatory military service and the historical context surrounding it. Unlike previous generations, many young individuals are equipped with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate the reasons behind calls for conscription, especially in the face of modern conflicts and geopolitical tensions.

This heightened awareness has led to debates about the ethics and necessity of conscription, as well as an understanding of its impact on personal freedoms and societal obligations. Young people are increasingly questioning the motivations behind such policies, exploring whether they serve national interests or merely perpetuate cycles of conflict and militarization.

Moreover, with the rise of social media and global connectivity, young people are able to share perspectives and experiences from around the world, fostering a more informed dialogue about the consequences of war and the value of alternative forms of service, such as community engagement or humanitarian work. This shift signifies a movement towards prioritising constructive solutions rather than military ones, reflecting a desire for peace and collaboration in addressing global challenges.

As discussions about conscription continue, young voices are advocating for a reconsideration of what citizenship and service mean in the modern age. This generation is increasingly focused on building bridges rather than walls or wars, emphasising the importance of diplomacy, dialogue, and understanding in a complex world.