Alcohol is one of the most commonly consumed substances in the world. It’s considered a social lubricant and has been a part of human culture for thousands of years. However, the legal drinking age in many countries is 21. This age limit has been a topic of debate for decades. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the reasons why the drinking age should be lowered.
1. Lowering the drinking age would decrease binge drinking
One of the main arguments for lowering the drinking age is that it would decrease the amount of binge drinking that occurs. Binge drinking is defined as having five or more drinks in a row for men, or four or more drinks in a row for women. It’s most common among young adults, particularly college students.
Studies have shown that countries with a lower legal drinking age tend to have lower rates of binge drinking. This is because when alcohol is legal and easily accessible, young people are less likely to engage in risky behaviors like binge drinking.
2. Lowering the drinking age would reduce alcohol-related accidents
Another argument for lowering the drinking age is that it would reduce the number of alcohol-related accidents. In the United States, drunk driving is a major problem. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, alcohol-related accidents accounted for 10,511 deaths in 2018.
By lowering the drinking age, young people would be able to legally purchase alcohol and consume it in a safe environment. This would reduce the number of young adults who drink and drive, which would in turn reduce the number of alcohol-related accidents.
3. Lowering the drinking age would reduce the stigma around alcohol
In many cultures, there is a stigma around alcohol. It’s seen as a “bad” or “dangerous” substance, particularly for young people. This stigma can cause young adults to feel ashamed or guilty about drinking, even if they do so responsibly.
Lowering the drinking age would help reduce this stigma. When alcohol is legal and easily accessible, it’s seen as a normal part of adult life. This would help young adults feel more comfortable and confident when drinking, which could lead to healthier and more responsible drinking habits.
4. Lowering the drinking age would promote responsible drinking
Contrary to popular belief, lowering the drinking age could actually promote responsible drinking. When alcohol is illegal for young adults, they are more likely to consume it in unsafe environments or to hide their drinking from adults.
By legalizing alcohol for young adults, they would be able to consume it in a safe and controlled environment, such as a bar or restaurant. They would also be more likely to seek help if they were experiencing problems with alcohol, since they wouldn’t have to worry about getting in trouble for drinking underage.
5. Lowering the drinking age would be more consistent with other age limits
The legal drinking age in many countries is 18 or 19. In the United States, however, it’s 21. This inconsistency can be confusing for young adults, particularly those who live near the border of a country with a lower drinking age.
Lowering the drinking age would make the age limit more consistent with other age limits, such as the age at which someone can vote or join the military. This would make it easier for young adults to understand and follow the law.
Conclusion
The legal drinking age has been a topic of debate for decades. While there are valid arguments on both sides, there are several reasons why the drinking age should be lowered. Lowering the drinking age would decrease binge drinking, reduce alcohol-related accidents, reduce the stigma around alcohol, promote responsible drinking, and be more consistent with other age limits. It’s time for lawmakers to seriously consider lowering the drinking age.