Kids shouldn't have to have something to be rebellious about. True, they are rebellious by nature, but there are other ways of solving the problem. I know it's a more difficult goal to reach, but what we need to do is strengthen the family and rebuild our moral code. Now, those of you reading this are probably thinking, "Like THAT's ever gonna happen." But, if it doesn't happen soon, we are going to run the final stretch to extinction. We NEED this to happen. We can keep proposing all these other "solutions," but we need to look at what really needs done. It is legal for adults to drink, and a lot of adults do not drink responsibly. And another thing, a lot of kids do not drink pop responsibly. I believe the actual solution that you are refering to in France is the comparitive strength of the family. Again, there is the need for idealism. Shoot for rebuilding society.
ephraiml - [to Steve] I have to disagree with your thoughts on alcohol. The only thing that should be regulated by governments is any drug which is completely addictive. Any drug that is not, should be allowed to anyone unless they show that they have an inability to handle it. If it's not handled this way it's as unfair as in grade school when someone does something bad and everyone has to stay in from recess. I for one don't want to live in a society that punishes everyone for the faults of others. Before someone comes up with the majority rules argument, let me clarify the full wording: Majority rules with minority rights. If 85% of the population vote to enslave the remaining 15% is it right, I contend it is not. Back to my first statement, we do not know of any drug which is completely addictive hence we should not outlaw anything. A side fact: the most addictive drug, if addictiveness is calculated by failed attempts to quit is nicotine.
I am not proposing any course of action by stating my personal fear of alcohol. As stated in the readme, philosophers allow for a difference between theory and action (at least I do anyway). I think that alcohol ruins a lot of people's lives. It is true that my fear is probably a paranoia caused from baised experience. Theoretically, I agree that alcohol should not have to be regulated. As far as an age limit on drinking, I would have to say in today's society I wish that regulation to remain. Theoretically (and highly idealistically), people should be responsible about drinking. People should be supportive of each other so that some don't need to turn to alcohol to disolve worry. But I guess if I had to decide on a course of action, I would not change the present law concerning drinking. As you said, I do not wish to impede on the rights of those who drink responsibly.