Would you fight for your country? Episode 495

In this thought-provoking episode, Niall is joined by journalist Ian O’Doherty to explore a timeless yet deeply divisive question: Would you fight for your country?

Prompted by a recent survey of British men showing that only one in three would be willing to defend their nation if war broke out, the discussion ranges from the history of the Oxford Union “King and Country” debate of 1933 to the modern realities of conflict, nationalism, and personal responsibility.

Listeners call in with passionate, contrasting views. Some see defending their homeland as a sacred duty, while others reject the idea of sacrificing their lives for political leaders or monarchs. The conversation also touches on Ireland’s past struggles for freedom, the legacy of the IRA, and the controversial issue of Ukrainian men in Ireland avoiding conscription.

Callers’ Pros & Cons:

Pros (for fighting)

Patriotism & loyalty: A duty to defend one’s family, community, and way of life.

Freedom isn’t free: Sacrifice is necessary to preserve democracy and sovereignty.

National pride: Fighting proves solidarity with one’s nation in times of crisis.

Historical precedent: Past generations risked everything, so today’s shouldn’t shy away.

Cons (against fighting)

Distrust of leaders: People refuse to die for governments or monarchs they don’t support.

Moral objections: Some see all war as unjustifiable violence.

Futility of war: Many believe modern conflicts solve nothing and only create suffering.

Personal cost: The risk of death or leaving family behind outweighs any sense of duty.

Global citizenship view: Some reject nationalism entirely, believing cooperation matters more.

This episode asks the ultimate personal question: If your country called, what would you do?