Conclusion

Historical military conscription, and today's political debate over peacetime conscription, raises the question of whether responsibility to the government diminishes citizens' rights. Governments have a responsibility to protect not only their citizens' lives, but also their rights. Compelling young people to take responsibility and serve their country when there is no dire need is less important than allowing citizens to determine their own path in life. No matter how the United Kingdom settles this debate, youngsters must balance both their responsibilities to their country and their rights to chase their own dreams.