Should the voting age be reduced?
The right to vote is one of the most essential aspects to a functioning democracy. Yet when discussing whether the voting age should be reduced to include more of the population, many cite teenagers’ lack of maturity and their vulnerability to being manipulated by politicians as a reason against it. This essay will argue against this belief and instead argue for a reduction in voting age on the basis of encouraging civic engagement and fostering representation in the youth population.
To begin with, there should be a reduction in the voting age to encourage a sense of civic engagement and duty in the younger generation. Lowering the voting age would allow young people to actively participate in the political process, helping to educate them on important political issues whilst engaging in meaningful discourse in a respective manner.
Additionally, reducing the voting age might encourage a more long-term engagement of those affected, increasing voter’s volume and turnout and thereby increasing the legitimacy of a democratic government. This leads me to the next point.
Reducing the voting age would allow for a more inclusive and representative government, one in which a range of diverse perspectives coming from young people may be heard. Youth demographics may often hold unique viewpoints not understood by older generations. By lowering the voting age, these perspectives would be ensured to be heard and taken into account. The essence of democracy is inclusive representation, as policies from lawmakers affect everyone in the population. It thereby follows that youth perspectives must be taken into account to ensure a fair and functioning democracy.
On the other hand, critics express concerns about the maturity and informed decision-making capabilities of younger people. Some argue that teenagers lack the maturity and political awareness needed to make an informed voting choice. Moreover, there are worries that younger people are more susceptible to being swayed by sensationalist and at times extremist arguments. Nevertheless, it is important to recognize that the advancement of technology and other such tools has allowed more people than ever the opportunity to educate and inform themselves through the tools of the internet and different online news media outlets. Furthermore, the trait of being manipulated is not exclusive to those under 18. Adults are just as susceptible to being manipulated by the media. Though this essay does not argue for a complete reduction in voting age, toddlers included; it is merely arguing for those aged 16 to 17 to have a say in their future.
To summate, a 1 to 2 year reduction in the voting age would greatly serve the purpose of a democracy by allowing an equal and inclusive representation of the general public. It is especially true and is thus needed given the current advancement of technology which makes education and information so accessible, for a sensible age like 16 or 17 year old.
