The U.S. Constitution Provides a National and Military Ethos We Must Not Fail To Follow. As Long As A Premium Is Placed On Good Judgment, We Cannot Fail.
Strategy Central
By and For Practitioners
By Monte Erfourth, October 18, 2024
Introduction
Imagine if every individual in your life consistently exercised good judgment and adhered to traditional virtues such as honesty, commitment, integrity, courage, and unselfishness. Daily interactions would be marked by trust and mutual respect, as each person would strive to act with sincerity and wisdom. Conflicts would be minimized, as thoughtful decision-making would replace rash actions, and misunderstandings would be resolved with patience and critical thinking. In this environment, your personal relationships would flourish, providing a sense of trust and solidarity, as those around you would consistently make choices that prioritize collective well-being over selfish desires. The atmosphere would be one of cooperation and stability, thereby fostering a deep sense of community.
On a broader scale, good judgment and ethical behavior would elevate society as a whole. Workplaces would thrive, with individuals making decisions that balance personal ambition with the greater good, leading to higher productivity and a more positive organizational culture. Civic life would also be enriched, as people would approach political and social issues with a sense of responsibility and fairness. In such a world, problems like inequality and corruption would diminish as everyone would be committed to justice and the common good. By aligning personal actions with virtue, the collective quality of life would be significantly enhanced, leading to a more peaceful, just, and fulfilling existence for all. Good judgment is the apex of human possibility, and while not always attainable, the idea of pursuit has never lost its appeal.
Good judgment and ethical conduct are cornerstones of the founding father's efforts to found a new nation. While they understood that virtue ethics could not be achieved in mass, it would be vital for those who wield political and military power. Laws would be necessary to codify a national ethos and citizens of virtue to manage the affairs of state.
The U.S. Constitution is not merely a legal document but a testament to the principles that define the American national ethos—a guiding set of ideals about how governmental power should be used and constrained. These principles are the foundation for American democracy, ensuring that power is held accountable, individual rights are protected, and human dignity is upheld. Despite the obvious failings in living up to this national ethos, it has provided the moral and intellectual framework for the U.S. military’s profession of arms and the virtues required to sustain its professional ethos.
Although the Founding Fathers were concerned about the dangers posed by a standing army, they would recognize the necessity of having one in today’s complex global environment. They would also insist that the military reflect and uphold the Constitution's core values. Like the government it serves, the U.S. military must be bound by ethical standards that promote the greatest good for all and are consistent with virtuous action. As long as the U.S. remains a democracy, the military must maintain the highest ethical and legal standards to protect and defend the Constitution, the Republic, and the American way of life.
National Ethos Defined
The U.S. national ethos, derived from the principles of the Constitution, reflects a vision for how governmental power should interact with citizens and how society ought to function. This ethos emphasizes several key ideals:
Governmental power over citizens must be constrained to allow human flourishing. The Constitution establishes limits on governmental authority, ensuring that individuals are free to pursue their own paths in life. This principle underlines the importance of personal liberty as the foundation of a thriving society.
Power within the government must be diffused, not concentrated. The Constitution’s separation of powers and system of checks and balances ensures that no single branch of government can dominate. This diffusion of power prevents tyranny and promotes accountability.
Minority and majority rights must be considered. American democracy functions by balancing the will of the majority with the protection of minority rights. The Constitution enshrines protections for individual liberties, preventing the majority from oppressing the minority.
The duty to respect others' rights and dignity. The ethos emphasizes a commitment to treating all individuals with dignity and respect, recognizing that a healthy society is built on mutual regard and the protection of human rights.
Rule of Law enables equal treatment through due process. The Constitution establishes the rule of law as a central principle, ensuring that all individuals are treated equally before the law and that justice is administered fairly and consistently.
Produce the greatest good and do the least harm for all affected. Ethical decision-making should prioritize the well-being of all members of society, striving to produce the greatest good while minimizing harm. This utilitarian principle is essential for maintaining a just and equitable community.
Life in community is a good unto itself. Our actions should positively contribute to that life. The national ethos recognizes that individuals do not exist in isolation. A vibrant, cooperative community is essential for the well-being of all, and every citizen has a responsibility to contribute positively to the common good.
Ethical actions ought to be consistent with certain ideal virtues that provide for the full development of our humanity. The national ethos calls for behavior that aligns with virtues such as integrity, justice, and courage, fostering the moral development of individuals and the betterment of society.
While not exhaustive, these principles constitute a national ethos. The national ethos forms the basis for the U.S. profession of arms, shaping the values and virtues that service members are expected to uphold.
Military Ethos and Constitutional Principles
The U.S. military’s profession of arms is defined by an ethos that is deeply rooted in the Constitution’s principles. At its core, the military ethos is a commitment to service, honor, and the defense of the nation. However, this ethos is not separate from the broader national ethos; it is, in fact, an extension of the same principles that govern civilian life.
The military exists to serve and protect the Constitution, which requires adherence to the principles of limited government, the rule of law, and respect for individual rights. The civilian control of the military, enshrined in the Constitution through the role of the President as Commander-in-Chief, ensures that the military remains subordinate to the will of the people and their elected representatives. This reflects the ethos that power must be diffused and that governmental authority must be constrained.
Furthermore, the military’s legal and ethical obligations, codified in the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), mirror the Constitution’s commitment to the rule of law and due process. Service members are held to the highest standards of conduct, and their actions are governed by principles of justice and fairness, ensuring that they remain accountable for their behavior.
The Virtues Guiding Military Behavior
The virtues that guide military behavior are not arbitrary but are deeply rooted in the national ethos and the values of the Constitution. These virtues ensure that the military remains a force for good, dedicated to the defense of the nation and the protection of the rights and freedoms of its citizens.
Bearing: Military professionals must exhibit composure and self-control, especially in challenging situations. Bearing reflects the dignity and discipline expected of those who serve.
Courage: Both physical and moral courage are essential for military service. Physical courage enables soldiers to face danger, while moral courage allows them to uphold ethical standards, even when it is difficult or unpopular.
Decisiveness: Military leaders must be able to make timely and effective decisions, often in high-pressure environments. Decisiveness is a critical virtue for ensuring mission success.
Dependability: Dependability means that service members can be relied upon to fulfill their duties, no matter the circumstances. This virtue fosters trust within the ranks and between the military and the public.
Endurance: Endurance is the ability to withstand physical and mental hardship. It is essential for maintaining resilience in the face of adversity.
Enthusiasm: Enthusiasm for the mission and for serving the nation reflects a deep commitment to duty and the defense of the Constitution.
Initiative: Military personnel are expected to take initiative, demonstrating resourcefulness and a proactive attitude in the performance of their duties.
Integrity: Integrity is the foundation of ethical behavior. Service members must act with honesty and honor, adhering to moral principles in all aspects of their professional and personal lives.
Judgment: Good judgment is essential for making sound decisions, especially in complex and dynamic situations. It involves the careful weighing of options and consideration of the broader impact of one’s actions.
Justice: Justice is the commitment to fairness and the protection of individual rights. Service members must ensure that their actions are consistent with the principles of equality and due process.
Knowledge: Military professionals must possess the knowledge and expertise necessary to perform their duties effectively. Continuous learning and professional development are essential components of this virtue.
Loyalty: Loyalty to the Constitution, to one’s comrades, and to the American people is a fundamental virtue in military service. However, loyalty must always be rooted in ethical principles, ensuring that it does not conflict with the broader national ethos.
Tact: Tact involves treating others with respect and sensitivity, even in difficult situations. It reflects the duty to respect others' rights and dignity.
Unselfishness: Military service requires putting the needs of the nation and the well-being of others above personal interests. This virtue is essential for fostering a sense of duty and sacrifice.
These virtues are not just ideals; they are practical principles that guide military conduct and ensure that service members act in accordance with the Constitution and the national ethos. Together, they provide the moral foundation for the military profession of arms and ensure that the armed forces remain a force for good in the service of the Republic.
The Most Important Virtue
Judgment is arguably the most important trait to cultivate because it is the foundation upon which all other virtues rely. In both personal and professional contexts, good judgment allows individuals to weigh options, consider consequences, and make decisions that align with ethical standards. Whether in military operations, leadership roles, or daily life, the ability to assess situations carefully and act with wisdom is essential for navigating complex and ever-changing circumstances. Poor judgment can lead to catastrophic mistakes, while sound judgment ensures measured, responsible actions.
Judgment takes on even greater significance in the military, as decisions often involve life-or-death consequences. Leaders must evaluate the tactical aspects of a situation and the moral and legal implications of their choices. The best leaders anticipate potential outcomes, foresee risks, and balance short-term goals with long-term objectives. Even the most courageous or skilled individuals may falter in critical moments without well-honed judgment.
Moreover, judgment is essential for maintaining trust and accountability. In a society that values transparency and fairness, individuals with strong judgment are more likely to earn the respect of their peers and subordinates. This trust is crucial, particularly in high-stakes environments, where people rely on leaders to make decisions that protect lives, uphold values, and serve the greater good. Judgment, therefore, is not just a personal asset but a vital trait that strengthens organizations, communities, and the nation as a whole.
The U.S. Military’s Ethical Standard Bearer
George Washington remains an enduring example of the national military ethos because of his steadfast commitment to civilian control of the military and his dedication to the rule of law. As Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, Washington consistently deferred to the authority of the Continental Congress, understanding that the military must serve the Republic, not wield power over it. His decision to relinquish power after the Revolutionary War and retire to private life rather than pursue political or military dominance demonstrated his respect for democratic principles. This act set a precedent for the U.S. military to remain subordinate to civilian leadership, ensuring the military serves as a protector of democracy rather than a threat to it.
Washington also embodied the virtues essential to the military ethos, such as integrity, judgment, and selflessness. He exhibited exceptional moral courage and decisiveness throughout his leadership, guiding the fledgling nation through its most perilous times with a deep sense of duty. His refusal to seize power when it was within his grasp, as seen in his rebuke of the Newburgh Conspiracy, showed his commitment to republican ideals over personal ambition. These actions reflected his belief that the military exists to serve the people and defend their rights, not to aggrandize itself or its leaders. His leadership serves as a model for military officers, who are expected to act with integrity, loyalty, and a sense of responsibility toward the nation.
Washington's legacy continues to be relevant to the U.S. military today, particularly as the institution navigates the complexities of global power dynamics while maintaining its commitment to democratic values. His example underscores the importance of maintaining the highest ethical standards, especially in an era where the military is frequently called upon to operate in morally ambiguous environments. Washington’s embodiment of the military ethos—his loyalty to the Republic, his respect for the rule of law, and his personal humility—remains a timeless standard for U.S. military leaders to emulate as they fulfill their duty to protect and defend the Constitution and the American way of life.
Conclusion
The U.S. Constitution not only defines the principles of American democracy but also lays the groundwork for the virtues that guide the U.S. military. Among these virtues, judgment stands as the most crucial—because it serves as the foundation for all others. Applying good judgment enables military leaders and service members to navigate complex ethical landscapes, ensuring that their actions align with the Constitution's values and the American people's expectations.
Judgment is vital for individuals to balance courage with restraint, decisiveness with consideration, and loyalty with integrity. For those in the military, where decisions often hold life-and-death consequences, sound judgment is indispensable. The power to make such decisions demands a commitment to justice, fairness, and the greater good—principles enshrined in the Constitution and mirrored in the military ethos.
While more is expected of military service members, they are also offered the freedom to pursue the highest standards of human excellence. Through their service, they are given the opportunity to develop not only technical and strategic skills but also the moral virtues that form the core of both military and national character. The Constitution grants them the liberty to act, but with that liberty comes the responsibility to exercise judgment with wisdom and ethical clarity.
In wielding the power of choice—the power to defend, protect, and, at times, take life—military members must embody the virtues that safeguard the Republic. Judgment, as the ultimate virtue, allows them to act with honor, upholding the ideals of democracy, and ensuring that the military remains a force for good. The development and application of this virtue not only serve the immediate demands of national defense but also contribute to the enduring strength of the American way of life.
American armed forces members need look no further than George Washington's humility, integrity, and refusal to pursue power for personal gain to serve as a timeless model. His example reminds us that the greatest leaders are those who wield power with wisdom and restraint, grounded in the higher purpose of serving the Republic. His judgment set the standard for all who serve, emphasizing that the virtues of service and leadership are most fully realized when aligned with the ideals of democracy.
In this way, judgment unites the Constitution's and the military's ethos, empowering service members to fulfill their duty with the excellence and humanity that both the nation and its founding principles demand. Washington's legacy remains a guiding light for all who are entrusted with defending America and exercising the power of life and death in its name.
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Notes
1. U.S. Constitution, Preamble.
2. Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), Article 92.
3. Department of Defense, DoD Directive 5100.01, "Functions of the Department of Defense and Its Major Components," 2010.
4. Samuel Huntington, The Soldier and the State: The Theory and Politics of Civil-Military Relations (Cambridge, MA: Belknap Press, 1957).
5. George Washington, Farewell Address, 1796.
6. U.S. Department of the Army, The Army Ethic, Army Doctrine Reference Publication (ADRP) 1, 2015
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