Dickinson College - News and Events - Drinking Age Debate

Drinking Age Debate
March 6, 2008

The national debate over the drinking age took center stage at an event presented by The Clarke Forum on Thursday, March 6. The discussion, "Drinking Age Debate: Legal Age 21 after 23 Years: Has it Worked? Is it Working?"included John McCardell, founder and director of Choose Responsibility, and Chuck Hurley '67, chief executive officer of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). The debate was moderated by Douglas Edlin, assistant professor of political science.

The purpose of this discussion was to explore the consequences of The National Minimum Legal Drinking Age Act in a serious, informed, dispassionate and comprehensive way and to consider whether any change in the law or any reorientation of public policy is warranted. The debate was sponsored by James '78 and Niecy Chambers.

Prior to the event, an online discussion was held allowing students, parents, alumni and others to share their opinions. Following the debate, a vote by those attending found 67 percent in favor of lowering the drinking age to 18, and 33 percent supporting the current age of 21.

Click on image to view larger photo.

Chuck Hurley '67, chief executive officer with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)

Chuck Hurley '67, chief executive officer of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), listens to a question from the audience.

ohn McCardell, founder and director of Choose Responsibility

John McCardell at the podium.

A Dickinson student poses a question during the debate.

Provost and Dean Neil Weissman asks a question of the panelists.

John McCardell, founder and director of Choose Responsibility, addresses the audience in the HUB Social Hall.

An NBC Nightly News cameraman (left) records the debate alongside a member of Dickinson's Office of Conferences & Special Events.

The audience looks on during the debate.

Above and below: Hurley and McCardell field questions as Assistant Professor of Political Science Doug Edlin (center) moderates.

Hurley fielding a question after the debate.

Hurley fields a question after the debate as the television camera rolls.

Left: The panelists continue the conversation with members of the Dickinson community after the public debate.

Photos by A. Pierce Bounds '71