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Most People Who Join The Military Are Stupid
There's too much praise, even worship, of people in uniform these days. Now we're being told in Britain that former members of the military should get privileged access to schools and healthcare because of their great sacrifice for us all. This is balderdash. Most people in the military are just stupid people who couldn't get any other job. They're not braver than anyone else. They're not more patriotic than anyone else. They have two distinguishing qualities : Stupidity and sociopathology.
 Hidell  14 Jul 2008 05:44
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Following orders of an entity which is not "pure," or right. Take a look at US history, for example.
 
 Dustin0550  31 Oct 2009 02:08
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Many are stupid, but not all. Americans join a voluntary military service for four reasons, the last occurring more and more in the past 15 years:

1) Careerism. Some have "family ties" that enable them to attain privileged positions in a short time, rather than earning it on merit (e.g. Military academy grads with family histories in them, like Bush Sr. And McCain).

2) Brainwashing and propaganda. The stupid take the view that "my daddy was in the army, so I joined", or they believe "Saddam did 9/11!" and other stupidity. And remember Hollyweird propaganda films like "Red Dawn" and "Top Gun" which make it sound glamourous?

Or how about the historical revisionism of "Black Hawk Down"? Ewan McGregor's character "John Grimes" is a fiction invented by Hollyweird to please the US military. The real soldier from that incident, Ranger John Stebbins, is currently serving a 30 year sentence for raping his daughter, likely a result of the drug Larium (a/k/a Mefloquine). US soldiers were used as guinea pigs for the drug which is widely known to cause psychotic behaviours in a small percentage of people (e.g. Murder, suicide, rape, etc.).

3) Some who join have no other options. The poor who have no chance at a higher education and no job prospects often join because there's not much else available.

4) Gangs and militias want the training. Scumbag groups are encouraging their members - before they get criminal records - to join the military to obtain military training (combat, explosives) and for access to weaponry. Then such groups are using that training to commit crimes and terrorism (e.g. McVeigh, anti-abortion groups, separatists, militia groups).
 
 K9  09 Aug 2009 09:50
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No one ever said that you're stupid for defending your country. However, killing off innocent people that cannot defend themselves isn't defending your country. It's the same thing as a 17 year old boy taking pride for stealing a 6 year old's milk money. That's where the whole entitlement thing comes in.

Why should people in the military be entitled to free healthcare, education, etc? What about doctors and surgeons? They helps save lives everyday! What about teachers? They educate the youth of this country! The people that will be taking over in a mere 20 years. The people in the military defend this country. Does that mean that everyday civilian jobs do absolutely nothing for this country? If it weren't for them, the military wouldn't have a country to defend.
 
 caitlin713  15 Apr 2009 23:23
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I see your general point Hidell and I do agree that "There's too much praise, even worship, of people in uniform these days." I guess I would rather praise the individual that went through 10 years of strenuous higher education rather than the individual that signed a piece of paper at the age of 18. I would have rather joined the military than continued with my education, but I was fortunate enough to (barely) afford further education. I felt that I would better be able to serve the country as a whole by going to school. We must all do our part to make our country great. Why are those in the military given so much credit? Why aren't we stopping bank managers and thanking them for their service to our country?

"Anyone can die, but few will ever be able to understand rocket science."
 
 Specter87  29 Nov 2008 00:06
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 Im all for education. its the route i took also. but, how has your education contributed to the betterment of your country?
by  created
 18 Dec 2008 21:40
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Eh...i agree.......who wants to die.....not...ME......and plus the military gets so much...bs...they don't do what they said they are going to do....eh....sounds pretty lame to me...
 
 Preppyboi4  15 Jul 2008 00:25
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I wont say stupid but i will say a bit useless some of the time. During a time of peace basically were paying people to work out and exercise and drill while giving them free housing, food, and other things. This is not always true as some live with families but still go to "training" every few months. They try to make these people useful by sending them to put out fires and such and I'm fine with that but until that guy risks his life and is at constant risk of his life hes just another man doing his job and deserves what everybody else gets and no more
 
 Smito  14 Jul 2008 18:02
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 You make them sound like such a disgrace Smito.
by  keepmindok
 20 Aug 2008 22:49
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Some of the hateful responses opposite are indicative of the sense of entitlement that most of the zombies in uniform now have. They see themselves as superior to other citizens. Because they have gone to some third-world country and murdered defenceless brown people at the behest of some evil politicians, they feel themselves entitled : Entitled to free education, free medical care, free child care, free travel, free prostitutes.

The rest of us have to bow down and worship the roid head in uniform. This is proto-fascism. When the goons and zombies are exalted as heroes, and held up as moral examples for the admiration of all, you have a culture and civilisation slipping down into the abyss. This is what happened in Germany between the world wars when the WW1 soldiers were exalted as heroes.

I've got nothing against people in the military. No doubt some of them are pleasant, decent people, probably more nuanced in their views of the world than some of the unscrupulous politicians on whose orders they murder people. But the fact is that most of them are of sub-normal intelligence. They joined the military because employment opportunities which required intelligence were not available to them. In other words, they join for simple economic reasons, not because they feel some burning desire to serve their country or perform heroic deeds. In any case, how heroic is it to drive round murdering brown people who can't fight back? It's not a real war. A real war is when the enemy can fight back.

It's true that some niche occupations in the military require intelligence and training. These are the exception, though. The basic grunt job of driving round in a jeep and shooting brown people who look at you the wrong way, or standing at a checkpoint and shooting the brown people who drive up too fast, does not require intelligence. In fact, for that job, intelligence in the recruits is regarded as a bad thing, because it means that the person possessing it is more likely to question the crazy orders he has been given.
 
 Hidell  14 Jul 2008 16:21
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 GOOD SHOT!
by  joe9
 14 Jul 2008 16:40
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Yes, generally this is true. Being a soldier is a job like any other, and they get paid to do that job. I don't see any particular reason why they should get special treatment over anyone else who is in gainful employment. They certainly don't volunteer to risk their lives for their county, they expect to get a big fat wage for doing it. If anyone is stupid enough not to realise that joining the military means that you are going to get shot at then they deserve to be shot.
 
 Jahwobble  14 Jul 2008 14:20
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 Well put.
by  Specter87
 29 Nov 2008 00:20
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Is there any need for an intellectual military?
 
 joe9  14 Jul 2008 08:49
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 Go rent "Blackhawk Down". Pay close attention to the number of casualties taken by both sides and it should paint a pretty clear picture for you about the difference between an "intellectual military" and the military you would appear to advocate.
by  Cons_Lies
 14 Jul 2008 13:55
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First of all, your an idiot.

People who join the military may not be more patriotic before they join, but while they are serving they become completely different people. They learn to love their country, which is why many military members risk their lives doing heroic things, and many do not make it.

This statement that you made is one of ignorance. You have no clue what these men and women risk, and these people are incredibly brave. You obviously do not have any patriotism whatsoever, so don't criticize the patriotism of those who our risking their lives for your country.

You call members of the military stupid, but I'm sure commissioned officers have a higher education than you.

I'm just going to call you an idiot one more time. Your an idiot!
 
 Brandeis10  03 Nov 2009 20:04
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Eh...I'm a little torn because the while I disagree with the heading of the debate, there are certain things within the subject that I agree with. Generally speaking, I don't think people join the military because they are stupid; there are just certain things that some people are better at. Maybe one person becomes a lawyer, while another becomes a military officer. There's nothing here about being intelligent or stupid because both men could be of the same intellect, but chose different careers.

While I do think that soldiers deserve some respect, they are not above the people they protect because it was a responsibility they took upon themselves (barring drafts from times past). If someone wants to volunteer for something, that's awesome; just don't look for anything more than a thank you. I've seen soldiers act as though they are better than "civilians" because of their military service, which is complete bull.
 
 Damien  10 Jun 2009 13:15
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What a shame on you folks! You dont have no pride, honor, courage, RESPECT, dignity, or commitment. You want to call people who join the military stupid? Well, I guess that makes our ancestors who fought in the revolution stupid too, right? And lets not forget the World Wars were God knows what kind of state our world would be in if Germany, Soviet Union and Japan divided and conquered. And what about those who were drafted into the military that had no choice but to go into the wars? I guess a better decision would be for them to try and dodge the draft and go to prison instead? Yep, that sounds like a much better idea. Such a shame. My grandfather was a bombadier in WWII, my uncle joined the Army and they helped him pay for college and I'm in the Navy. Been in for 7 years now and I love it. It's been really good to me and my family and has let me be able to travel the world and have incredible experiences that I will remember for the rest of my life and it is helping me pay for college! In my honest opinion, if you don't believe in or support our military, then why are you living in America? You should denounce your American citizenship and go find a country you believe in and also support their military and live there. Taking your American rights for granted.

One a side note: While some of you are losing your jobs and benefits because of the economy, were still getting paid. We still keep our health benefits Our families are still being taken care of. So hate on us now!

Proud US American and Navy Sailor! YN2 Blackstad
 
 navygirl02  10 Jun 2009 08:44
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 Navygirl, Thank you for your service.
by  truthtell
 10 Jun 2009 10:43
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I joined to pay off my student loans. I don't care about politics or who dies where. I just want to be able to live a normal life without being harrassed by creditors.

I understand that there is a possibility that I may be shot or may have to shoot others but it is a risk I am willing to take for the life I want to live. When things really get crappy in the army, I remember the $65,000 in student loan repayment from the army. If there was another way for me to come up with $65,000 in 3 years (besides my living expenses), while becoming a certified mechanic, and while doing something exciting, I probably would have found it.

I have an IQ of 121 (Stanford-Binet) and am 18 credits shy of a bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. I will admit though that I am not a typical soldier and the majority of the people I have met in the army are not too bright.

However, despite their intelligence, I do not believe that we are truly treated as heroes or are excessively privileged. My experience is that people are all praise for the military but when it comes down to really helping out, nobody wants to stand behind their promises. A good example are military discounts. Military discounts around post are really not discounts at all. They are just ploys to make you believe it. This includes the commissary and the PX. If you were in the army you would understand that there are very few privileges on and near military bases. Army life is like living in a communist country. You are constantly being watched and told how to think, but nobody really believes the bullshit.

In summary, from my experience, yes people in the military are not very bright. However, there is not "too much" praise for the military. Army life sucks, and don't forget that they are the pillar of our nation's defence. You should stand behind them regardless of their intelligence.
 
 timanony  18 Jan 2009 17:39
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Hidell...when you sacrifice yourself for your country, family, or beliefs people will praise you too. Until then, give the guys that have done it a little credit.
 
 created  18 Dec 2008 21:39
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I could never be grateful enough to the people who loved Britain to the extent that they would sacrifice their lives so that we could preserve our beloved values of freedom and equality.

It's true that not all wars are just wars but your blanket statement degrades all those men who fought for democracy against fascism in 1945.
 
 Kirsty08  29 Nov 2008 00:00
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Omg how stupid is it to defend your country
 
 emocheese  28 Nov 2008 21:10
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 When was the last time one of these retards defended their country? They attack other people's countries. They don't defend their own.
by  Hidell
 28 Nov 2008 22:48
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Yes how stupid is it to defend your right and protect
your country
when your country needs you
if all the stupid folks that gave there lives to defend us said no we would all be talking German
the real stupid folks are the chickens that wont stand up and give all unless its with there mouths.
 
   07 Sep 2008 22:13
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 Noble, yes, but not a smart choice.
by  Homestar
 28 Nov 2008 21:01
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People who think they could call the shots in their life without other people protecting their rights are twice as stupid as most stupid people who join the military.

The stupidest thing about joining the military is having to defend the twice as stupid.
 
 justsumguy  21 Aug 2008 04:39
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Some Guys and Gals who come from disadvantage backgrounds see the military as an option.
Many would struggle to stay off the dole.
I think it is wrong to label them stupid. The military is a great opportunity to do something useful with there lives.
There are a few who let the side down with booze. Or some other abuse such as the embarrassing conduct of both American and British troops in Iraq.
For the most part it is honorable employment they are rightly proud to be a part of.
Remember, When the chips are down we will all be cheering them on.
 
 keepmindok  20 Aug 2008 18:54
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Do not use service men and women as your scapegoat for your disgust or disagreement with your government. Besides, many of those "stupid" and "sociopathic" men and women feel the same way you do about the current situation, i.e. The "war" on terrorism.

Don't be so quick to judge. Many of these men and women are going to need help getting on their feet after coming back from such conflicts. Why would you deny them that right? I have witnessed first hand the strain this has put on them and their families.
 
 athling  17 Aug 2008 18:12
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What the hell is this about? Your saying people who put their lives on the line are stupid? That's like looking at a firefrighter after he pulled you from you burning house and calling him stupid because he saved you. They should get special privileges, I don't see you out there in Iraq. I don't see you doing anything for our country. I mean, neither am I but, I'm not trashing people who do, am I?
 
 Keetondude  27 Jul 2008 06:03
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 well the marine threw a puppy off a cliff...look it up
by  keetonman
 27 Jul 2008 06:17
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No, they are not stupid except for the marine who threw the puppy off the cliff, but that's a different story. I want to be a soldier and you should check out everything including the pay before you criticize the best job in the world.
 
 keetonman  27 Jul 2008 05:54
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Although they CAN be stupid it's not true most are.

It's neither "necessary" nor "sufficient" to be stupid in order to get into the military. People join for a long list of reasons among which are a lack of other economic options, a desire for the schooling assistance, and even blind patriotism.

Now if I joined the army I'd say I was stupid... Because I have other options.

And frankly although we think of common foot soldiers being basic grunts the truth is there is substantial complexity to doing their jobs. And climbing up the ladder to pilots, commanders, artillery you end up with quite highly skilled and intelligent people.
 
 Grenache  14 Jul 2008 21:16
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Choice of occupation (military is an occupation) does not prejudge one of low-intellectual capacity.

Stupid is how stupid does, said Forrest Gump in the Tom Hanks movie...........;-)

There is none so moronic as someone who pre-judges anything they do not understand nor have previous knowledge of or about or concerning.

My late Father was in the army.....WW2.:-(
Don't talk trash about the men in uniform or I will kick your @ss.:-(
My Father was the best man, bravest most courageous REAL MAN I ever knew! And he was an ordained minister of the Gospel, a pastor and a preacher, and a Gentleman. Always.

Which if I could find a man as good as my Father? I would drag him off to the Justice and marry his little @ss in a heartbeat, SO THERE!!!

Do not run down military and uniformed men.

Intelligence-wise? My Father as the class Valedictorian of his high school.....and that was back in the days where you could not graduate until you had memorized the Constitution and Bill of Rights, and speak and read LATIN.

He was a Mathematics Major, he did not have dyslexia.

And at his funeral in 1997, he was given a full-military burial ceremony: Folded flag, gun-salute, and the young military man in Army-Dress-Blues, handed my mother the American Flag, by my Father's grave.

God Bless his memory. May I live up to my full potential as his replacement on this earth: I am, my Father's daughter.
And never, ever forget it.
 
 Scorpion  14 Jul 2008 19:01
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 He also said "my mama says life is like a box of chocolates." He didn't say that much during his time in the army, probably because he reverted back to stupid is as stupid does. Boy could he run, and play table tennis. Fine qualifications for an amy career. Throw a ping pong ball at the enemy and run like...
by  joe9
 14 Jul 2008 19:14
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There are stupid people everywhere, but I think the military is the wrong place to look for them. Most people who join the army are not stupid, but are looking for a paying job to support their families, a place to find adventure, or maybe just want to defend their country. Sure, today's wars are not worth fighting in, but sometimes families raise their children to think that they are. So it usually isn't the child's fault if he thinks that he should fight in a war. I think making a blanket statement that "everyone is stupid" is very stupid.
 
 mastermov  14 Jul 2008 14:35
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 So are you saying you are suffering from minimal cranial development? You remind me of that guy in a test who was asked to spell MISSISSIPPI, and asked which one "the river or the state?"

This is for your following comment: Look whose just spat his dummy out! War doesn't determine who is right you plonker, it determines who is left!
by  joe9
 14 Jul 2008 15:08
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Do you have any idea of the intellect and talent it takes to fly a plane or helicopter? To learn Farsi? To operate a nuclear submarine?

To oppose a military endeavor is one thing, but to make a blanket statement insulting all who wear a uniform in defense of their nation is quite another.

I'm sorry if a military member edged you out for the school you were hoping to get into. Perhaps if your scores had not been so mediocre that wouldn't have happened.
 
 cds69  14 Jul 2008 14:16
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I think some intelligent men have a need for adventure which only the likes of the military can provide. You may consider that to be stupid, but they may be bored stupid with what excites you.
I don't think you can quantify intelligence by the books you read or your education.
I have a friend who was shot in Afghanistan, couldn't wait to get back, he was very lucky, trophy scar and a couple of grand compensation. Talks of the ultimate adrenalin rush of being in battle, pushing the body to it's limits. It can be addictive to some.
I think it's a disgrace to call these men stupid just because they maybe differ from you.
You may not get to many philosopher soldiers, but they must need to shut that door to live that life. Politicians are the same. Are they to be considered stupid too?
 
 2free  14 Jul 2008 14:00
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"There's too much praise, even worship, of people in uniform these days." This could only be written by someone who's never thrown the uniform on.

"Now we're being told in Britain that former members of the military should get privileged access to schools and healthcare because of their great sacrifice of us all." You shouldn't NEED to be told this. If you have any kind of heart at all, you'd lead the charge on making sure it happened for them.

"Most people in the military are just stupid people who couldn't get any other job." I would love to know what you do for work Hidell.

"They're not braver than anyone else." Of course they are. That is why they volunteered to sacrifice their lives for their country and others don't.

"They're not more patriotic than anyone else." Yes they are.

"They have two distinguishing qualities : Stupidity and sociopathology." Interestingly enough, I was thinking the same about you.
 
 Cons_Lies  14 Jul 2008 13:51
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