Semantics
Our study leads us to propose a series of changes, some semantic, that will speak to the reality of the world young adult Americans inhabit.
We recommend that young persons upon turning 18 be consistently referred to as adults. This recommendation carries with it the hope that such misleading, even condescending terms as “kids,” “teenagers” and “minors” will cease to be selectively employed as synonyms for young adults.
Second, we recommend that the stated goals of public alcohol policy should be defined not by proscription or prohibition, but, instead, by moderate and responsible use.
Drinking, like driving, represents a “rite of passage” in American culture; yet, to date, only one of those privileges requires significant training and testing. The consumption of alcoholic beverages must be an earned privilege in order truly to safeguard society and individuals.
We recommend that young persons upon turning 18 be consistently referred to as adults. This recommendation carries with it the hope that such misleading, even condescending terms as “kids,” “teenagers” and “minors” will cease to be selectively employed as synonyms for young adults.
Second, we recommend that the stated goals of public alcohol policy should be defined not by proscription or prohibition, but, instead, by moderate and responsible use.
Drinking, like driving, represents a “rite of passage” in American culture; yet, to date, only one of those privileges requires significant training and testing. The consumption of alcoholic beverages must be an earned privilege in order truly to safeguard society and individuals.