As for our opponent’s arguments, they might as well have produced their facts on pure speculation based on the fact that they provided no specific examples of research done. Furthermore, they state that alcohol decreases motor functions. Yes, this is true, however, with proper education and in a responsible environment, drinkers wouldn’t be allowed to leave or go anywhere without adequate supervision of a sober person, for at least two hours after their last drink. Also, they have provided inaccurate facts. Alcohol actually damages the myelin (the fatty tissue on one’s spinal cord), which according to Professor Hinrich, the Psychology professor at Century College among other places, doesn’t develop until one is 21 years of age. It doesn’t do significant damage, however, unless the drinker is already a severe alcoholic. On the other hand, it damages the brain no matter what age you are, therefore rendering their argument null. Might we also add that the brain never actually stops maturing. It’s noted for its ability to maintain plasticity and adapt to new situations and environments throughout an individuals entire life. Also, they bring up insurance premiums. This wouldn’t be an issue if kids were more educated in the way they drink and the responsibilities they must encounter. Also, your premiums will increase that dramatically even if you get into an accident without alcohol being involved. They have no evidence that lowering the drinking age would cause more accidents, whereas we have provided historical proof that keeping it like it is would do exactly that.
-Mallory, Alecksandra
There is nothing here to read Ladies.
ReplyDeleteI just fixed it
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, I am glad to read about a source that I know through taking General Psychology. Second, I liked how you started off. I think your beginning sounded very professional and was an effective way to get my attention right away. The end about premiums sounded a little off tangent though.
ReplyDeleteI was wondering where you got the info about brain development from? I took developmental psych and it was quite specific about substance abuse and brain development. This is just out of personal curiosity, nothing to do with class. I'd like to read the info. I couldn't see it in the readings :( Thanks a lot!!
ReplyDeleteI thought that your logic behind your debate was great. I was around when the drinking age was 18, they lowered it about 20 years ago and I think it was a good idea. Can you imagine an older high school senior being allowed to legally drink, they don't know a thing about life outside mom and dad's house, but they can out and drink at the bars. The brain analogy was correct and I even think that a young adult who is 21 really hasn't that great of making the wisest decisions, and the lowering the drinking age would be a great detrimental decision if that ever happened. Ahh, lowering it? Never will that happen.
ReplyDeleteLainey; Professor Hinrichs taught us of the plasticity of the brain during our run through brain anatomy. Basically he said that the brain is constantly developing and that it will always adapt to whatever is thrown at it. Alcohol will damage brain cells, new brain cells will be made with time.
ReplyDelete-Mallory
I like how you counter a series of different arguments. My main recommendation is that you cite more evidence while doing so.
ReplyDelete