Thursday, August 21, 2008

Classic Strawman

Columnist Barb Shelly, writing in the Kansas City Star about the new movement to lower the drinking age to 18, makes a classic strawman argument.

But do these academic folks ever leave their college towns? Stumbling back to one's apartment or dorm room after a night at the frat party or bar is one thing. The thought of 18-year-olds drinking legally and then getting behind the wheel in, like, Overland Park, is another.

Ms. Shelly raises an idea that no one is advocating (18-year olds drinking and driving) and then attacks it. It's easy to win arguments (in your mind) when you make up ridiculous claims and then attack them for being ridiculous.

No comments: