Answer:
I think, in some ways, the author does. However, becasue there is no real opposition that the author lays out, and because of other reasons, I don't think this is a valid arguent. For a more in-depth analysis, read the explanation.
Explanation:
It hosestly depends on what you would consider the 'other side' of this debate, and what would constitue as a valid argument. If you are looking at the viewpoint of "Yes, this is a valid argument," then these examples and opinions make sense.
A) "Teenagers can learn from having to maintain a vehicle." Yes! Teenagers learn via <em>doing</em>. Not everyone is a visual learner.
B) "...responsible drivers have the wide-open road in front of them and endless opportunitites." Well, I wouldn't word this using <em>endless</em>, per se, but sure. Responsible drivers don't need monitoring. I can get behind that.
C) Read the third Paragraph. Boom! A whole lot of explanation for yeah! Sure! Valid!
If you are looking at the viewpoint of "No, this is not a valid argument," then these examples and opinions make sense.
A) There is a slight Slippery Slope fallacy hidden in this argument. Paragraph four says this: "This lesson can carry over into school, work and pesonal life." While this <em>could</em> be true, the sentiment right before it is part of a Slippery Slope fallacy--or just about. There are many reasons to be responsible, and not being allowed to drive at 15 will not crash a student's entire life.
B) In P. 5, yes. Maturity certainly determines if one is 'old' enough to drive. However, how does one <u>measure</u> maturity? There is no test. That's why the legal driving age is 16, just in case some one isn't mature enough to drive without an adult in the car with them.
C) "Those who are not responsibel enough..." Yes, punishment in this context does what? Doesn't let them drive, sure. How do you...enact that into law? '<em>Oh, if we don't deem you mature enough you will get your liscense revoked. WE determinte if you are mature enough.'</em> That certainly sounds like it would be abused.
D) The very last sentence is very...affronting. It tells me what <u>not</u> to do. People don't like being told what to do or not do, they like to form opinions and act on them. You can purseude them, but outwardly telling them 'Don't do this' will throw any valid argument out of the window.
