ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the deep-seated essential aspects of Finnish conscription and focuses on the question of whether a long-lasting and coherent story can be found to underlie the current and widely supported conscription procedure as a basic solution for Finland's defence. It depicts how conscription has been understood at different junctures, how it has been organized, and how apparent changes are interpreted in the current debate on the future of the military manpower in Finland. The bond between the Finnishness, the Finnish military forces and the defensive mentality that prevails in Finland becomes apparent when the fundamental nature of the social order is analyzed. The legend of Lalli depicts some initial elements of the Self and the Other in the context of construction of Finnish national identity. With respect to the idea of 'true' Finnish conscription, the Winter War formed a decisive period. The sense of history and modern changes are very much present in post-Cold War politics of Finland.
