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25% of Troops Would Disobey 'Wrong' Orders, Survey Reveals

8/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A survey of 818 active-duty U.S. troops found that 25% would disobey orders they consider "obviously wrong" or "criminal."
Many service members prioritize international law over U.S. law when evaluating orders.
The findings highlight a moral dilemma regarding illegal orders, affecting troop morale.
Despite military culture discouraging disobedience, many troops are reconsidering their responses to unlawful commands.

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Story summary

A survey of 818 active-duty U.S. troops found that 25% would disobey orders they consider "obviously wrong" or "criminal."
Many service members prioritize international law over U.S. law when evaluating orders.
The findings highlight a moral dilemma regarding illegal orders, affecting troop morale.
Despite military culture discouraging disobedience, many troops are reconsidering their responses to unlawful commands.