| Popis: |
Voting is traditionally reserved for those 18 and older. We examine the justifications for this age demarcation, and then consider the research evidence. This review suggests that 16- and 17-year-olds ought to be allowed to vote in local elections because they share all the relevant qualities for voting possessed by young adults. Moreover, this change in voting age will enliven civics education as young voters discuss how they will vote on local issues and promote the acquisition of the habit of voting. Finally, we argue that because municipal governance is less ideologically-polarized than national politics, local communities are excellent contexts for developing civic knowledge and dispositions. |
