Why Alcohol Advertisement Should Be Banned

Alcohol has been a part of human culture for a very long time. Its usage has remained a controversial issue throughout American history. Beginning in the 1900s, alcohol was often demonized, but it is currently legal for adults over the age of twenty-one. Although many people advocate for alcohol to be classified as an illegal drug, others argue that it should remain legal for adults. The presence of alcohol in society has been problematic for many, as it can influence behavior and lead to issues such as accidents and even fatalities. One contributing factor is the significant percentage of companies advertising their products. Alcohol advertising should be banned once and for all. This could be the beginning of a significant change in society, particularly for future generations.

Reasons to Prohibit Alcohol Advertising

Alcohol advertisements have been prevalent for years. In American history, there was an attempt to ban alcohol altogether, but it was not successful. Nowadays, many people, including parents, are striving to ban alcohol advertisements due to the substantial influence they have on younger audiences. Parents are deeply concerned about their children's futures. No one wants to see a young teenager struggling with alcohol addiction. These advertisements often feature celebrities, leading children to believe that if famous people indulge, it might be acceptable for them too. Kids are influenced by these characters and aspire to emulate them. This desire encourages them to mimic these behaviors. Consequently, alcohol advertisements should no longer exist, as they negatively influence young people, making them believe that underage drinking is acceptable. These companies specifically target young people, knowing that by planting these ideas in their minds, they might act on them one day.

The second reason why alcohol advertisements and alcohol in general should be banned is the increase in car accidents caused by drunk driving. Since 1991, such incidents have more than doubled. The advertising of alcoholic products has been identified as a significant factor in shaping youth drinking habits. One perspective is that advertisements create an environment where alcohol consumption is seen as normal, sparking an interest in alcohol among young people. According to a study, about 5,000 people under the age of 21 die each year due to underage drinking, with 1,900 of those deaths resulting from auto accidents. Furthermore, about one in three high school students has ridden in a car driven by someone who had consumed alcohol (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, n.d.). Alcohol is involved in 31% of teenage car accident fatalities.

Some argue that alcohol advertisements are not the root of the problem. They believe it is the responsibility of parents to educate their children about drugs, with alcohol being one of them. Alcohol is one of the easiest substances for teenagers to access and become involved with. Therefore, it is the parents' duty to guide their children, and alcohol advertisements have little impact on the choices that teens make. Another argument is that moderate drinking is not harmful and can even offer health benefits. "Drinking in moderation can protect your heart. One drink a night can cut the risk of heart disease by up to 40%. Alcohol can lower bad (LDL) cholesterol, raise good (HDL) cholesterol, and reduce blood problems that can lead to clogged arteries" (Harvard School of Public Health, 2010). Additionally, companies invest substantial funds in these advertisements. If they were curtailed, there would be less marketing of alcohol, potentially impacting the economy. Alcohol sales contribute to economic growth, as the taxes from these purchases boost the country's economy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, alcohol advertisement should be banned. These advertisements primarily serve to benefit alcohol companies by encouraging young people to start using their products at an early age. If this issue is not addressed, it could lead to future drinking problems among the youth. The media and society should take action to help eliminate these ads, as it might prevent potential issues before they escalate.

References

• Harvard School of Public Health. (2010). Alcohol: Balancing risks and benefits. Retrieved from http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/alcohol-full-story/
• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (n.d.). Underage drinking. Retrieved from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/underage-drinking