Final answer:
The government is allowed to engage in legal discrimination, such as age restrictions for driving and educational requirements, to ensure public safety and maintain standards. These discriminations are exceptions to the equal protection clause because they serve the greater welfare and security of society as a whole.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to how governments can engage in legal discrimination against certain groups of people such as youths or those without a high school diploma despite the equal protection clause. This clause mandates that all individuals be treated equally under the law. However, the government can actually impose certain age requirements and qualifications like the minimum age to smoke or drink, the need for a high school diploma, or passing certain tests to obtain a California driver's license. These forms of legal discrimination are justified on the basis of public welfare, safety, and standards of education and competence.
Discrimination in law often occurs when the government deems it necessary to promote the wellbeing and safety of its citizens as a whole, even if that means placing restrictions on certain individuals. For example, to drive on public roads, one must satisfy certain conditions. Similarly, educational requirements ensure that institutions maintain a level of academic integrity.