At the heart of democracy is the idea that citizens are equal before the law.
In elections, every citizen gets only one vote. When citizens are charged with
crimes or believe their rights have been violated, they expect equal treatment
in the courts whether they are rich or poor, religious or atheist, politicians
or political activists. Every democratic society must strive to grant equal
protection to its citizens. One significant community of citizens, however, is
not quite equal under the law. Children and adolescents are subject to
society's rules, but they are treated differently under the law precisely
because of their age. They cannot vote, nor do they have many of the privileges
and responsibilities of older citizens. Instead, laws are passed to help and
protect them or to protect the larger society. One of these laws is the youth
curfew.
This unit explores whether a democracy should impose curfews on people under
age 18. It examines the reasons why governments choose to enact curfews as
well as the reasons by people support and oppose this policy. The unit also
presents a discussion model called "structured academic controversy" for
exploring the facts, arguments, and options surrounding this issue.
Focus Questions
Should our democracy impose curfews on people under age 18?
Objectives
Understand the importance of youth participation in democratic societies.
Understand the context and reasons why some democratic countries have created
youth curfews.
Evaluate reasons for supporting and opposing youth curfews.
Identify areas of agreement and disagreement with other students.
Decide, individually and as a group, whether governments should impose curfews
on people under age 18; support decisions based on evidence and sound reasoning.
Reflect on the value of deliberation when deciding issues in a democracy.