Section I: IntroductionWomen have been in the military or associated with combat for decades. “The most famous example of a woman's ability not only to engage in combat but also to lead forces is that of the legendary battles of Joan of Arc leading the French army while she was just a teenager. » (Gerber 1) Women were involved in espionage and even posed as male soldiers during the Civil War. In conflicts such as World War I, World War II, Panama, and most recently our current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, women have served with distinction in many ways. During our most recent conflict, more than 100 servicewomen made the ultimate sacrifice. Today, with changes in our society and the global environment we live in, two controversial arguments arise regarding women in combat. Basically, the debate is about whether or not women should be allowed to participate in direct combat. As our society and cultural beliefs change, so do what we exclude as social norms. Both sides of this argument offer numerous reasons for and against allowing women to participate in direct combat. By considering both sides of this controversy, it will show that not only has social change occurred, but battlefield dynamics have actually already placed military women in direct combat. Section II: Opposition to direct combat roles for women. those who strongly oppose it base their criticism on a number of reasons based on social norms that have existed for centuries. Our social and cultural norms have dictated in the past and will dictate for a long time how we approach these issues. Since the dawn of time, societies have set certain standards for what men and women should be. These expectations are called gender norms and a...... middle of paper ... weapon work, but those who are interested should be given the chance to do so. They should be given the opportunity because they are already there.ReferencesCasey, L. "Women in Combat", Academic Essays and Debates on Women in the Military: Military Woman Magazine. December 19, 1997. http://www.militarywoman.org/academic.htmElshtain, Jean Bethke. “Feminism and war”. Progressive September 1991: 14-16. “Fire when you’re ready, ma’am.” » Editorial. Time January 13, 1990: 29. Gerber, Bradely. “Women in the Army and Combat.” © April 24, 1998. Hoffman, Julie. “Men and children first.” American Spectator September 1992: 43-44. Norden, Edward. “Right behind you Scarlett.” American Spectator August 1991: 14-16. United States. General Accounting Office. Physically demanding jobs: Services have little data on staff capacity to perform. " By Mark E. Gebicke. (GAO/NSIAD-96-169) 1996.