Don't Lower The Drinking Age: a Critical Examination

Picture this: a college party filled with underage drinkers, binge drinking to their heart's content. The scene may seem familiar to many, as underage drinking continues to be a pervasive issue in our society. Some argue that lowering the drinking age could alleviate this problem, but this essay will argue against that notion. By examining the potential consequences and societal implications, it becomes evident that lowering the drinking age would do more harm than good. This essay will explore the key reasons why the drinking age should not be lowered, ultimately highlighting the importance of maintaining the current legal age limit.

Potential Increase in Alcohol-Related Accidents

One of the primary reasons why the drinking age should not be lowered is the potential increase in alcohol-related accidents among young adults. Supporting evidence from credible sources such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals that alcohol-related traffic accidents are a significant concern. According to the NHTSA, the current legal drinking age of 21 has been effective in reducing drunk driving fatalities among young people (NHTSA, 2020). Lowering the drinking age would undoubtedly lead to an increase in alcohol-related accidents, as younger individuals may not possess the necessary maturity and responsibility to handle alcohol consumption responsibly. This evidence highlights the potential dangers associated with lowering the drinking age and emphasizes the importance of maintaining the current age limit.

Impact on the Developing Brain

Another crucial aspect to consider is the impact on the developing brain of young adults. Research from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) demonstrates that the human brain continues to develop until the mid-20s, specifically the prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and impulse control (NIAAA, 2018). Alcohol consumption during this critical developmental stage can have severe consequences, such as impairing cognitive functions and hindering overall brain development. Lowering the drinking age would expose younger individuals to the risks associated with alcohol consumption, potentially hindering their long-term cognitive abilities and impeding their educational and professional growth. This evidence underscores the potential harm that could arise from lowering the drinking age and reinforces the necessity of maintaining the current limit. By preventing early exposure to alcohol, we can ensure that young adults reach their full cognitive potential.

Adverse Societal Implications

Lastly, lowering the drinking age could have adverse societal implications, including an increase in high school dropout rates and alcohol-related health issues. Studies conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan have shown a correlation between early alcohol consumption and high school dropout rates (Johnson et al., 2019). Lowering the drinking age would likely increase access to alcohol for high school students, leading to higher dropout rates and decreased educational attainment. Additionally, the potential for increased alcohol-related health issues, such as liver damage and alcohol addiction, cannot be ignored. By maintaining the current legal drinking age, we can mitigate these societal issues and protect the well-being and future prospects of young individuals. Furthermore, a well-educated population is crucial for societal progress and economic development.

In conclusion, the arguments against lowering the drinking age are compelling and supported by credible evidence. The potential increase in alcohol-related accidents, the impact on the developing brain, and the adverse societal implications all point to the necessity of maintaining the current legal age limit. By upholding the age of 21 as the legal drinking age, we can protect the safety, health, and overall well-being of young adults. This essay serves as a reminder that the drinking age should not be lowered, as doing so would have far-reaching negative consequences for individuals and society as a whole. Maintaining the current legal drinking age is not just about preventing immediate harm but also about safeguarding the future of upcoming generations.

References:

• Johnson, L. D., O'Malley, P. M., & Bachman, J. G. (2019). Monitoring the Future national survey results on drug use, 1975–2018. University of Michigan, Institute for Social Research.
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). (2020). Traffic Safety Facts 2018. U.S. Department of Transportation.
• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). (2018). Underage Drinking. National Institutes of Health.