Introduction
The legal drinking age in the United States of America has been set at 21 since 1984. This means that individuals under the age of 21 are not allowed to purchase, consume, or possess alcohol. However, some people argue that the drinking age should be lowered to 18. In this article, we will explore the arguments for lowering the drinking age to 18.
1. Consistency in Age of Majority
One of the main arguments for lowering the drinking age to 18 is consistency in the age of majority. At 18, individuals are considered adults and are granted the right to vote, serve in the military, and get married. It is argued that if they are old enough to make these important decisions, they should also be allowed to consume alcohol.
2. Reduced Binge Drinking
Another argument for lowering the drinking age is that it could reduce binge drinking. Currently, many college students engage in binge drinking because they have limited access to alcohol and want to make the most of it when they do have access. If the drinking age were lowered, young adults would not feel the need to binge drink because they would have regular access to alcohol.
3. Decreased Unsafe Drinking
Lowering the drinking age could also decrease unsafe drinking. Since young adults are not legally allowed to consume alcohol, they often do so in unsafe environments, such as parks, abandoned buildings, or in cars. If the drinking age were lowered, alcohol consumption could take place in safer environments, such as bars or restaurants, where individuals are more likely to be supervised and protected.
4. Reduced Traffic Accidents
It is argued that lowering the drinking age could also reduce traffic accidents. Currently, many young adults choose to drink and drive because they are afraid of the legal consequences of being caught with alcohol. If the drinking age were lowered, young adults would be more likely to consume alcohol in a safe environment and would be less likely to drink and drive.
5. Legal in Other Countries
Finally, it is argued that the drinking age should be lowered to 18 because it is legal in other countries. In many countries, such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada, the legal drinking age is 18. It is argued that if young adults in these countries can handle alcohol responsibly, young adults in the United States should be allowed to do the same.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several arguments for lowering the drinking age to 18. These include consistency in the age of majority, reduced binge drinking, decreased unsafe drinking, reduced traffic accidents, and legality in other countries. However, it is important to note that there are also several arguments against lowering the drinking age, such as increased alcohol-related deaths and injuries. Ultimately, the decision to lower the drinking age should be made with careful consideration and research.