The Evolution of the Legal Age of Adulthood: A Case Against the Current Standard
Why are 18-year-olds considered adults if they are basically the same as 16 and 17-year-olds? Why don't we just raise it to 21? We don't really need 18-year-olds in the army these days, do we?
Yes, we do. We don't need old people in the army either. And army age should be dropped to 16. From 16 to 20 years old, individuals are in their peak and strongest. Anything after that starts getting frail and old drastically, and by 30, it's over. This argument raises several interesting points and debates surrounding the legal age of adulthood.
Historical Context
The designation of 18-year-olds as adults is largely a social and legal construct that varies by culture and country. Historically, the age of 18 has been associated with reaching adulthood in many cultures. This is when individuals gain the legal rights to vote, enter contracts, and be tried as adults in criminal cases.
Legal Milestones
Many countries, including the United States, have set the age of adulthood to 18 coinciding with military conscription. This reflects a belief that individuals should be able to contribute to society, including defense. The age of 18 also marks a point where individuals can make significant decisions independently, such as voting and entering into legal agreements.
Cognitive and Physical Development
Cognitive Development: Research suggests that while brain development continues into the early 20s, many cognitive abilities such as reasoning, decision-making, and impulse control are sufficiently developed by age 18 to handle adult responsibilities.
Physical Development: Physiologically, 18-year-olds are typically in the peak of their physical fitness. They have the strength, endurance, and energy levels to perform physically demanding tasks. In contrast, after 30, individuals often start experiencing age-related decline in strength and endurance.
Transition to Independence
Society often sees 18 as a transitional age where individuals begin to take on more responsibilities such as attending college, working full-time, or living independently. This transition is often marked by the legal age of adulthood.
Arguments for Raising the Age
Maturity Levels: Critics argue that many 18-year-olds may still lack the maturity and life experience needed to handle adult responsibilities effectively. They suggest raising the age of adulthood to 21 could better align legal rights with emotional and cognitive maturity.
Changing Societal Norms: As societal expectations evolve, there is ongoing debate about whether the age of majority should be adjusted to reflect changes in education, employment, and social independence. Raising the age of adulthood would align better with the reality and challenges faced by young adults today.
Conclusion
While the current age of 18 as the threshold for adulthood has historical and practical roots, the debate over whether to raise this age reflects broader discussions about maturity, responsibility, and societal needs. Any changes would require significant legal and cultural shifts, and opinions on the matter vary widely. The considerations around changing the age of adulthood are complex and multifaceted, involving both legal and social changes.