Exercise 15.7

The subject of underage drinking is a very complicated and controversial topic. A number of problems arise during the discussion of underage drinking. For example, some believe since at the age of 18 one can join the military that at the same age, one should be allowed to consume alcohol. In addition, the younger generation sees drinking as a social activity that should be allowed at social gatherings. However, underage drinking is an issue that should be viewed in a different light and be taken very seriously. The risk of alcohol abuse increases as the beginning age for drinking decrease. Another reason is younger drinkers are less experienced in all aspects of life and therefore, tend to make unwise decisions while under the influence of alcohol. Also, underage drinkers tend to binge drink, meaning that they drink more than four cups of alcohol in one evening. They also seem to exhibit higher risks for alcohol poisoning because they drink so much in one sitting. Finally, underage drinking leads to unreasonable and destructive activity. For these reasons, I believe that underage drinking should taken more seriously and the consequences should be strongly enforced.