To drink, or not to drink…
I’m taking Intro to Communications (Comm 1010) this semester, and it has proven to be one of the most interesting classes I’ve ever taken. This is because aside from the super intriguing coursework (not), we usually have a discussion during every class. The instructor is really laid back, and always asking us to give our opinions. These discussions range from political issues, to social, and even campus issues, and each time I leave with a new perspective on things.
Today we discussed the minimum drinking age in America. The instructor presented this question: Should the minimum legal age for drinking be lowered from 21 to 18? He then asked us to raise our hands if we agree/disagree. The majority of the class agreed, and at first I was among them. One student argued that many European citizens begin drinking at a very young age, and so the American government should at least be willing to lower the drinking age three years.
Then the instructor made his argument.* He pointed out that since Europeans drink at such a young age, their bodies have developed the ability to metabolize alcohol faster, so that by the age of eighteen, they don’t become drunk as easily, and they’re less likely to die from alcohol poisoning. They also may develop a more mature mentality concerning alcohol, which would make them less likely to drink irrationally. One other point the instructor made was that in Europe, drinking is more of a public activity and isn’t prohibited in public places. That, paired with the fact that most bars and pubs are within walking distance from residential areas, makes Europe a safer place to drink because drunken people are less likely to drive to a vehicle after drinking.
My argument would have been that if drinking was legal at a younger age, it would be less appealing to minors, and therefore the number of teens killed in drunk driving accidents would decrease. But after hearing the instructor’s argument I’m starting to think he may be right.
This is why I like this class. I like being exposed to new ideas. I mean that’s what college is for, right?
* I’m probably gonna refer to teachers and other people as “the instructor” or “that person” unless I know that they’re ok with me using their real name in the post.This is a good topic to discuss, so please post comments and/or take the poll. Do you agree or disagree? I want to hear what you think!
its a tough one. Its almost as if they think that we will indeed act like the Europeans and itll be safer…but Europe is sooo different from Americans i think it would be a bad idea probably. I don’t know. I haven’t consumed any alcoholic beverage at all, and i plan on waiting until im 21, i think its more of waiting and seeing how alcohol affects others whether it be bad or nothing at all, before you attempt to consume yourself. Then drinking rate has always been increasing and in fact, its starting to be proven that kids start drinking at about 7th grade. If it goes down to 18, okay sure it’ll be good for whoever in highschool, but little kids that young probably won’t give a crap. who knows. I think that they should think it through REALLY hard. and should ask themselves, hmm if i had a kid, would i want him to drink and he was only 17 or 18? haha, thats my opinion, but id like to hear someone who has a different opinion, i like to consume new thoughts.