Legal Adulthood: At 18, individuals are considered legal adults in many aspects of life, including voting, serving in the military, and entering into contracts. Advocates argue that if an individual is deemed responsible enough to make these important decisions, they should also be allowed to consume alcohol.
Cultural Responsibility: In many cultures around the world, drinking alcohol is an accepted part of social life, often introduced at a younger age. Lowering the drinking age could align American practices with those of other countries, promoting a sense of cultural responsibility and safe drinking practices.
Reduction of Unsafe Drinking Practices: Some studies suggest that a lower drinking age could result in safer drinking environments. When young adults are forced to drink in secret, it can lead to binge drinking and unsafe behaviors. Allowing legal access to alcohol could encourage more responsible drinking habits in controlled settings.
Focus on Education and Prevention: Lowering the drinking age might allow for better education about alcohol consumption. Instead of criminalizing underage drinking, efforts could be directed toward preventing abuse through education about moderation and the effects of alcohol.
Economic Considerations: Lowering the drinking age could have positive economic impacts, including increased revenue for businesses such as bars and restaurants, and reduced legal costs associated with policing underage drinking.
Inconsistency in Laws: The current age restrictions create inconsistencies in the law. For example, 18-year-olds can marry, take on student loans, and serve in the military, yet they are not allowed to purchase or consume alcohol.
Potential for Reduced Crime Rates: Some argue that lowering the drinking age could decrease the incidence of alcohol-related offenses among young adults, as they would be less likely to engage in illegal activities to obtain alcohol.