On to Whose Shoulders Does the Burden Fall: An Analysis of College Student's Sentiments towards Social Cohesion in the Face of National Service

Abstract

The United States can currently be defined by an incredible amount of inequality and a political and media theater that is dividing the nation. This study analyzes the state of social cohesion in the United States and the possible effect that mandated national service can have on it. It examines the duty of citizenship and explores the positives and negatives of today's individualistic society. This is done through a survey that measures Princeton University undergraduate students’ feelings towards a variety of statements that reflects on the current state of society. The results find that these students are both in touch with the state of the nation, but out of touch with the sacrifices that some have made for it.