Blog Stage Six: Responce to Colleague

On Thursday, July 27, 2017, an argument titled Give Youth a Voice was posted from the blog Young Minded Perspective of the U.S. The author makes the argument that the youth, particularly 16 and 17-year-olds, should be granted the ability to vote. She elaborates on this topic by describing how the young are well educated at this time because they are enrolled in school. She also points out that the media plays a substantial role in educating the youth. She continues by stating that the government gives these 16 and 17-year-olds responsibilities, that they are caregivers, sometimes tried as adults in court, can legally drive and able to start their own businesses. According to the author, these points make a valid argument as to why teenagers should be able to vote.

I disagree with the author, I believe the voting age should begin at the age eighteen. There are many reasons I am convinced that the age to vote is set at a reasonable scale. Yes, 16 and 17-year-olds are currently enrolled in school but considering their maturity level MOST teens are not as engaged or fascinated by politics. For instance, the Gallup Poll states, “About half of U.S. public school students surveyed (49%) are engaged with school. Nearly three-quarters (74%) of all surveyed fifth-grade students are engaged, and only about one-third of surveyed students in 10th, 11th and 12th grades are engaged.” Not being fully involved in their government classes could lead to a deficiency in information that is needed to make a rational and educational decision. Second, USUALLY, teens haven’t contributed to their country yet. I feel the votes should come from the community that is involved and has contributed to the country and democracy. However, I do believe it is important for the youth to become engaged in government. I think we should make it mandatory for the youth to participate in government activities, for example, town meets.