Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Should the voting age be 16?
Position1 of 3›

Yes, the age should be lowered

This position holds that the voting age should be lowered to 16. It argues that 16-year-olds already carry adult responsibilities yet cannot vote, that they are capable of forming reasoned opinions, and that engaging citizens earlier strengthens democracy by including more voices.

Supporting arguments · 4

  1. They have adult responsibilities, but can't vote
    Once rights involving freedom are given, teenagers should be able to vote.
  2. We should start incorporating politics as early as possible
    Lowering the voting age increases voter turnout and instills habits for young voters.
  3. 16-year-olds are capable of formulating opinions
    Sixteen-year-olds are beginning to become independent-they are old enough to make their own decisions.
  4. More voices should be involved in the process
    We should incorporate as much of the population as possible in decisions involving voters.