Many countries have spent vast sum of money on armament for the sake of self defense. Some people think they should spend on helping the poverty and other disadvantages rather than on weapons. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
 
 
Many years has gone by since World War II, we now live in a relatively peaceful environment and strive to develop a stronger economy. By contrast, developed and developing countries are spending a staggering amount of money on national defense. While such policy might appears to be an awful waste to some countries, particularly developing ones like China and India, it has deeper reasons for doing so.
 
It is wise to strengthen the national defense because a strong army entails a number of benefits for a nation. If not for other reason, peace and security top all other objectives for a country in all its endeavors. We have seen cases in which super powers took control or even invaded other sovereignties for economic or military interests. From history, China also learned its lesson in a very bitter way when its land was raged and trampled by foreign troops. So China has stepped up spending and efforts in national defense in order not to repeat such tragedy.
 
Money put in military research and development could also boost many hi-tech technologies. A good example could be found in the application of nuclear energy technology. Originally designed for war purposes, nuclear energy now provides a high percentage source of power in many countries, contributing to the preservation of natural resources such as coal and oil. Nuclear energy has benefits because it is both cost-effective and environmental friendly.
 
Economic growth is among other benefits spurred by military development. A wide range of military products is spawn from national defense investment. Demand for uniform, weapon, food and other commodities creates a huge market for the local and international businesses, which in turn increase demand for the labor market. It has been estimated that if the military spending is cut by 20 percent, millions of workers would lose their jobs and the country would suffer economically as well.
 
In conclusion, spending in national defense is critical in the peace keeping for a country and it also brings numerous benefits such as encouraging technology development and supporting economic growth.