On another thread, there's an argument going about brain-washing in the military, but it's a little off-topic. I figured we could have a good talk on such things in the military and in other areas as well.
http://www.armedpolitesociety.com/index.php?topic=5715.0Here's my idea about the pressure and "indoctrination" in military basic training based on my experience and ponderings. Let's hear your thoughts as well.
Where do we draw the line between blind obedience and efficiency? Thinking for oneself is grand, but it doesn't always have a place on the battlefield. Following orders works because of speed and coordination. When rounds start coming in, there's no time for argument. Everyone needs to do what's expected of them, and there can't be any bickering about who's in charge. Are there brilliant tacticians and strategists that win because they can think outside the box? Of course, but any sizable plan is going to need some things worked out before the bullets start flying. In fact, that's the whole point of military "group-think." The generals and captains can't explain every detail of every operation to everyone on down the chain of command, and probably shouldn't waste time doing so. A mid or higher level officer or NCO has information and experience that would take a long time to explain to someone at a lower level. The colonel sees a big picture involving dozens of units, (or more) while the private usually only cares what he has to do the next day. He has spent considerable time studying the wars and battles of the past, hopefully to keep him from making the newbie mistakes that private snuffy would make. That's why following orders is critical to survival. When a unit is under attack and people are dying there is no time for every one of thousands of individuals to question every policy or make suggestions.
When it comes to basic training, a major and extremely useful goal is to reduce every individual to the bare essentials of existence. It lowers your expectations. In modern America, that's quite necessary. War is about survival, not being comfortable. On overseas deployments, you won't be able to live in a nice house by yourself and get a latte on the way to work. You must learn to live on the bare necessities, crammed into a room or tent with three other people. And you learn to swallow abuse, poor conditions and criticism and rise above it. Better you learn under friendly custody than in a Chinese POW camp. You learn that you can survive such things.
You can't express yourself through superficialities like haircut, clothing, a car, etc. Ironically, this can bring out true individualism. You have to make your mark through what you do and how you do it, instead of piercing your ear or shaving your head. You learn what you have in common with others of different classes and races, and what really makes you different.
Your thoughts?
