Cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco have been around for many generations. There are good views towards it, obviously, because a large portion of our population uses it; and there are bad views, especially from those who feel that teenagers are being targeted by the smoking industry. Teenagers smoking, is the major concern today, due to the fact that "80% of adult smokers started smoking before the age of 18", and "every day, nearly 3,000 young people under the age of 18 become regular smokers" (CDC-Overview 1). The government, along with portions of the mass media, are against teenage smoking, while teenagers and tobacco producers represent tobacco use, if it be through advertisement or patronage.
             The government views on smoking, or tobacco use in general, are very open minded to adults, but when it comes to children under the age of 18, the government feels it must put its foot down. The government considers adults to be able to make their own decisions, and protect their body from harm, which is why much of the attention is stressed on teenagers. It is safe to say that the government is a sufficient source to generate information, being that one of their main goals is to provide for the public good. Being an adult, "having attained full size and strength; grown up: mature", means having had prior experience and proper education to be able to say no. If one does not accept the responsibilities and consequences, it is a personal choice made by that person that should have been given good judgment. The US government does not have any restraints or legislation passed affecting those over the age of 18 and which regard tobacco use. No, the government has not given!
             up hope on the older generations, but seeks mainly to inform them of the hazards rather than try to prevent smoking. For example, it is required that all tobacco vendors print the surgeons general's warning on their products, which warns the ...