Citizenship Through Service: A Reevaluation Based on Starship Troopers

In the educational world of Starship Troopers by Robert A. Heinlein, service is a requirement for citizenship and more. This article delves into the concept of national service, its moral underpinnings, and its portrayal in Heinlein’s seminal work. We explore whether such a system could be viable and what lessons we can learn from the book's depiction.

Introduction to National Service in Starship Troopers

Several individuals my age have mentioned that they’ve read Starship Troopers, and in it, citizenship is only available through service. The novel's backdrop is a future society where the traditional form of citizenship is tied to military and civil service, but the book itself casts a critical eye on the morality and effectiveness of this system.

Navigating the Recruitment Process

A poignant scene from the book captures the initial reluctance of the recruitment sergeant towards admitting young individuals. Describing a desk with a sergeant who has lost his arm and legs, the protagonist and his friend attempt to join the service. They are met with a dismissive attitude, with the sergeant initially ignoring them:

“He ignored us. He managed to bow while sitting down and said ‘Good morning young lady. What can I do for you’

This scene provides a stark introduction to how the system treats would-be volunteers, but the story's true depth comes when the sergeant does take an interest:

“Oh no!” I said. “I’m going to be a pilot.” “
You look like one. Well see Miss Rojas.”

The sergeant’s cold reception towards Carl’s desire for the Research and Development Corps highlights the rigour and the necessity of meeting certain standards:

“They are if you can cut it” the Fleet Sergeant said grimly “and not if you don’t have what it takes both in preparation and ability. Look boys have you any idea why they have me out here in front”

Evaluation of the System

The recruitment sergeant's speech is a profound critique of the system as it exists in the book. He explains the discrepancy between legal rights and practical realities:

“Because the government doesn’t care one bucket of swill whether you join or not! Because it has become stylish with some people—to serve a term and earn a franchise and be able to wear a ribbon in your lapel which says that you’re a vet’ran . . . whether you’ve ever seen combat or not.”

This statement reveals the superficial nature of some individuals' service, which is primarily motivated by self-interest and the desire for recognition rather than genuine commitment and ability. The sergeant further clarifies:

“But the facts are that we are getting hard pushed to find things for all the volunteers to do that aren’t just glorified K.P.”

Furthermore, the sergeant emphasizes the challenge in justifying the large number of volunteers:

“We don’t need that many and most of the volunteers aren’t number-one soldier material anyhow.”

Reflections on Citizenship and Service

Based on the book’s portrayal, it is apparent that the system Heinlein imagines is far from perfect. The mandatory nature of service for citizenship and the idea of serving to earn franchise are questionable. One must ask: is the government or society truly better served by individuals who merely fulfill a legal requirement rather than those who demonstrate genuine aptitude and commitment?

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the concept of citizenship through service has its merits, the example provided in Starship Troopers highlights the potential pitfalls. It raises questions about the integrity and effectiveness of such a system. The moral and ethical implications of service that Heinlein explores through his characters are crucial for any society that values its citizens. Ultimately, the question of whether service should be a prerequisite for citizenship requires careful consideration and a robust framework to ensure that it aligns with the principles of morality, virtue, and genuine excellence.