Compulsionary volunteerism.   That is the what politicians are looking into today.  Sound familiar?  It was an idea proposed by Ronald Reagan back in the ’80′s to stir patriotism and community service and to bolster the ranks of the military.  You will also remember if from the movie Starship Troopers.

“They’re doing their part. Are you? Join the Mobile Infantry and save the world. Service guarantees citizenship.”

“Every student in America would be required to perform 100 hours of community-based service prior to high school graduation.”

So in order to graduate you have to do stuff that is normally a punishment for law breakers?

“But enforced community service at this time in American history could bring immeasurable benefits to the nation’s psyche as it grapples with housing foreclosures, doped-up national sports heroes and serious challenges to our international image as world leaders.”

Say that again.  I don’t see how one thing has to do with the other.  Kids are going to look at this as another attempt by adults to control them.  What about the kids who will not have time to fulfill the service requirements (due to jobs, family obligations, etc)?  Are you going to penalize these students?  Sounds like there is going to be more problems for the poor and working poor than those who could skirt there responsibilities because of money or who their parent’s know.

Another “we didn’t think this through” idea that will catch on like wildfire in the political ranks and will be sugar-coated to get the popular support.

Yes, I know Israel has something similar and look how frelled-up that country is.. you have to be Jewish to be a citizen (and no, France’s system of volunteerism is quite different that what is being proposed).

Feeling:  rainy days and Mondays

Listening to The Encore Collection by Kansas

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