The legal drinking age in the United States is 21 years old. While the US is not the only country to pick this age – see this world graph – many question it. With the exception of obtaining a driver’s permit, the legal age for most restricted activities is 18. This includes voting, gambling, buying cigarettes, and joining the military (without parental consent). The age gap between these activities causes some to ask: should the US drinking age change?
| Yes, it should be lower! | No, it should stay at 21. |
|---|---|
| You know what they say: if you’re old enough to decide the future of your country, you’re old enough to have a drink! The same is true for the military: if you’re old enough to fight for your country, you’re old enough to drink! It is a shame that one can vote and serve before being allowed to have a drink. First of all, it is disrespectful to those who vote and serve. Secondly, it hurts our economy! Although many teens drink illegally, many abstain until they are 21. This amounts to a loss in revenue, especially when we consider the costs of reprimanding people who break the law. Stop arresting underage drinkers and lower the drinking age! | The US drinking age is 21 for a reason! When the drinking age was lower, we had higher rates of drinking-related car crashes. Teenagers tend to be impulsive and easily distracted. Prohibiting them from drinking discourages many from getting behind the wheel while inebriated. Another issue is physical and cognitive development. Teenagers are still children: they are growing and going through many changes. Why add alcohol to this mix? Teenagers should focus on having a healthy diet, exercising, and studying. I say yes to 21! |
Loading ...- Do you believe the U.S. drinking age should be lowered? Why or why not?
