It’s not a good idea -- it will increase the participation of people who aren’t well informed.

the elderly can already vote

Bit of a paradox. Such a sensible statement you can't help but feel she is well qualified to vote.

Age hasn't got much to do with being informed about politics. Just look at what the people have been voting for, for years.

Better young and ill informed than old and senile......

pretty appalling comment. I hope not all Japanese 18 year-olds are as lazy as this twit not to keep up on the news.

can anyone imagine a European, Canadian, or American youth saying the same thing and actually rejecting the right to take part in the vote? I can't.

It's your country and your responsibility. Get yourselves informed.

clamenza,'

Your incorrect, her comment is sadly pretty bang on from my zabuton!

She is merely commenting on her peers as she see's them, to me she seems to have it right!

GW- thats "your" interpretation. My interpretation sees it as a reflection of a general lack of curiosity and laziness.

Back we become adults at 18 but can't vote till we are 19. Many young people are better informed than their older peers.

Said that a low turnout of voters is the real problem which needs to be addressed, as long as people decide not to use their voting rights ....

Personally I think dropping the age to 18 will bring it more in line the majority of countries. A problem I have often seen overseas where "underaged" kids go to a neighbouring country where they are recognised as adults.

I can't recall the exact words but Winston Churchill said something along the lines "If you want an argument against democracy, talk to your average voter for five minutes".

I think I know where he was coming from.

It all went downhill when women got the vote. Most women end up voting for the person according to their smile, how they look and how they dress.

Yes...it's true.

Don't get upset.

gaijinpapa - I feel sorry for your wife/gf if you have one at all. If you feel that much disdain for women you probably assault them in one form or another.

Yes...its true.

Don't get apset.