<p>The legal drinking age is arbitrary - morally and legally. Presumably, studies show that 21 is when the brain is developmentally capable of handling alcohol without significant damage. However, it’s not like you turn 21 and then magically you can handle alcohol. The only country in the world with an underage drinking problem is the U.S. That’s mainly because it’s so publicized and strictly punished. I have encountered no other country in my travels that “cards” people to purchase alcohol. In those countries, it is mainly an individual-level decision. </p>
<p>That is, if somebody chooses not to drink no matter the drinking age, I respect that. But I also don’t think that criminalization is the answer to underage drinking, at least between the ages of 18 and 21. At that point, it is an individual decision that warrants no intervention by the state. If you say that the legal age prevents drunk driving accidents, drunk driving is already criminalized. There’s no point to criminalize the behavior itself.</p>
<p>Some people really need to get out from under the rock they’re living under.</p>
<p>Shame on whoever brainwashed you and made you believe that alcohol was immoral and evil. </p>
<p>Yes, alcohol is illegal in the United States if you’re under 21. Yes, alcohol is illegal in most countries for those under 18. However, this is entirely arbitrary. And, as has been said, illegality/legality does not define immorality/morality. Honestly, if you wait to experiment with alcohol, you will likely have a harder time learning your limits.</p>
<p>While almost everyone around you will be experienced and know their limits, you will be 21, ignorant, and will probably put yourself at risk for TRUE health risks.</p>
<p>Drinking is a fun and relatively safe activity when done right. Use your best judgement and acknowledge the risk in what you’re doing. If you’re so worried about getting caught, use your common sense! Don’t drink in public, don’t go to ginormous parties that will be crashed by the cops, and don’t drink and drive! It’s really that simple.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t necessarily have a problem with lowering the drinking age, but what kind of logic is this? People break the law, therefore the law shouldn’t exist?</p>
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<p>I’m not quite sure what you mean here. If setting the legal drinking age at 21 rather than 18 actually prevents drunk driving accidents (and I don’t know if it does), I think that’s relevant to consider because fewer people are being senselessly injured.</p>