Which age-gates should be skill-gates and vice-versa?
The article discusses the concept of age-gates versus skill-gates in society. It questions the rationale behind allowing individuals to participate in activities like voting and driving based solely on age, rather than demonstrated competence. The author suggests that some age-gates could be replaced with skill-gates to ensure maturity and understanding in critical areas.
- ▪In the UK, individuals must be 18 to buy alcohol, but there are skill-gates for activities like obtaining a medical license.
- ▪The article proposes that voting could be made contingent on passing a quiz to demonstrate understanding of political issues.
- ▪The author raises concerns about the arbitrary nature of age-gates and suggests that some activities might benefit from a skills-based assessment.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Which age-gates should be skill-gates and vice-versa? politics thoughts · 4 comments · 650 words · Viewed ~410 times In the UK, it is illegal to buy alcohol if you are under 18. Similarly, in most countries, you cannot vote until you have reached a specific age. These are age-gates. You do not need to prove your competence to drink, vote, smoke, or get married; you just need to be old enough. Some things have skill-gates. If you want an amateur radio licence in the UK, you need to pass an exam. You can be any age0. Similarly, most jurisdictions allow you to get a medical licence once you have passed the requisite tests1. There are also activities which are dual-gated.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Terence Eden’s Blog.