What is a Conscientious Objector?
A conscientious objector is someone whose core values include a prohibition against taking a human life and who, as a result, refuses to take up arms. In the past, two types of conscientious objectors have been recognized: those who object to taking an active part in any war (1-O), and those who refuse to take another human life but are still willing to serve in the military (1-A-O). According to the U.S. Selective Service website, “a conscientious objector is one who is opposed to serving in the armed forces and/or bearing arms on the grounds of moral or religious principles.” They also define the classifications as: 1-O Conscientious Objector – conscientiously opposed to both types (combatant and non-combatant) of military training and service – fulfills his service obligation as a civilian alternative service worker. 1-A-O Conscientious Objector – conscientiously opposed to training and military service requiring the use of arms – fulfills his service obligation in a noncombatant po
A conscientious objector is someone who opposes war for religious, moral, or ethical reasons. Many nations recognize conscientious objectors and have enacted measures to deal with them in times of war, by providing alternate ways to serve the national good. In nations which require nationalized registration of service, a conscientious objector must make his or her beliefs clear at the time of registration, so that the case can be reviewed. If the reviewing board determines that the claim of conscientious objection is valid, the individual is excused from military service.
