VOTING AGE Meaning and
Definition
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Voting age refers to the minimum age requirement that individuals must attain in order to be eligible to participate in the democratic process of voting in a general election or referendum. It is a legal requirement established by a country or jurisdiction to determine who can exercise their right to vote.
The voting age varies across different countries and even within different states or regions of a country. In most democracies, the voting age is typically set at 18 years old. This means that individuals who have reached their 18th birthday are considered mature and responsible enough to contribute to the decision-making process by electing representatives or expressing their opinions through the ballot.
Setting the voting age is a balance between encouraging political engagement among younger citizens and ensuring that they possess the necessary understanding and maturity to make informed choices. Some countries, however, have experimented with lowering the voting age to 16, based on the premise that young people should have a say in shaping their futures earlier.
Determining the voting age is a significant aspect of electoral laws as it directly impacts the composition of the electorate and the legitimacy of the democratic system. It encompasses the principles of inclusivity, representation, and ensuring broad citizen participation in decision-making processes.
Common Misspellings for VOTING AGE
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Etymology of VOTING AGE
The etymology of the term "voting age" can be traced back to the Middle English period.
The word "vote" comes from the Latin word "votum", meaning "a solemn pledge" or "one's wish or desire". In ancient Rome, citizens would express their consent or preference by casting votes.
The term "age" originated from the Old French word "age", which ultimately traces back to the Latin word "aetas" meaning "period of life" or "age".
Combining these origins, "voting age" refers to the specific period of life or age at which an individual is legally allowed to cast a vote in an election or political process. The exact age considered as the "voting age" has varied across different countries and historical periods.
Similar spelling words for VOTING AGE
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