Though heavy restrictions on drinking age are enforced by a number of countries, others suppose that a more reasonable approach is to not apply these rules. From my point of view, both views have their own reasons, but the establishment of constitutional ages for drinking depends on how much influence this practice has on the residents.
On the one hand, people who support setting required ages for consuming potent drinks may think that young people do not have much responsibility, as well as life experience. Therefore, not until they are fully grown should they be exposed to liquor, as this substance can result in unmanaged behaviors or an improper mindset, negatively impacting important tasks. For instance, almost half of Icelandic teenagers used alcohol regularly in the late twentieth century; this resulted in poor school performance, one of the ghastly effects of early drinking. However, after strict age-limit policies, youngsters’ alcohol usage has decreased, leading to a higher rate of academic achievements at school. Indeed, being under the heavy influence of intoxicating substances can cause serious consequences, especially for minors, so age prohibition of this intoxicant is crucial.
On the other hand, objectors prefer to stop implementing tough policies to control underage drinking. To explain this, in some countries where religions and social hierarchy play an important role in people’s perceptions, the use of alcoholic beverages is extremely avoided. Instead of drinking hedonistically, individuals here focus more on staying conscious to obey standards required of them. The case of Myanmar can be a typical example, because in this country, laws and politics are deeply influenced by Buddhism. Monks play an important role in societal movements, and the government integrates these teachings into education. As a result, children here are strictly obligated to keep precepts, including staying away from intoxicants at a young age. Apparently, for societies like this, legal age restriction is not as effective as a national religion.
In conclusion, the application of legal age restrictions for drinking works for various nations. However, it is not necessary for all of them, as religions and class systems are more influential on this issue in other countries.