Social Policy | |
How To Combat Binge Drinking |
Binge drinking at college fraternity parties has resulted in a number of tragic deaths. Unfortunately,
says New York University sociologist David Hanson, "we have driven (drinkers) off campus, and
now we have no control over their drinking." The harm of binge drinking would be reduced more through family education than legal sanctions,
asserts columnist Doug Bandow, "a process that would be more likely to occur if the drinking
age was lower."
There is no evidence the higher age limit has reduced drinking by young adults, say Bandow. And allowing older teens to drink openly in the company of other responsible users would help those nearing adulthood "learn how to drink gradually, safely and in moderation," argues Elizabeth Whelan of the American Council on Science and Health. Only three other countries set the minimum drinking age at 21, says Bandow. In Belgium, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, it is 16. New Zealand's Liquor Review Advisory Committee is urging that the age limit be reduced from 20 to 18, and that minors be allowed to drink anywhere if accompanied by a parent. The committee concluded "increased legal availability will not make a significant difference to the level of consumption in all age groups, but will bring more young people into controlled drinking environments." Source: Doug Bandow, "Eliminate the Minimum Drinking Age," Conservative Chronicle, May 20, 1998. |