Those in favor of legalization argue that by making marijuana legal, prisoners will be filled with less one-time drug users and more serious criminals. Also, there is no denying that marijuana is a hot substance, and if the federal government quit the raids and let people sell their own, there would be so much potential tax money. (In fact, you could probably make a fortune just by taxing the stuff sold at a Willie Nelson concert!)
People against legalization argue that by not allowing the drug to be sold,kids will be less drawn into crime and other illegal activites. Also, kids who use drugs might be less motivated and end up lazy. (There is some truth to this statement; after all, I've rarely seen my stoner friends do anything but listen to music, skateboard and drink.)
Personally, I think the whole "war on drugs" and "just say no" is a bunch of crock. Why should something found in nature be made illegal. Cigarettes are some of the most toxic substances available, and no one complains about outlawing them. Yet marijuana has much fewer side effects and health risks associated with it, but cops . (While we're at it, let's outlaw the manufacturing of bathtubs; after all, some kid could get in there and drown.)
And many of these moral guardians who support the war on drugs have "danced with Mary Jane" before. But do they think that kids will be kids and thus tolerate small usage? No, they act like hypocrites and deny people the same freedom they once had.
Personally, I think the whole "war on drugs" and "just say no" is a bunch of crock. Why should something found in nature be made illegal. Cigarettes are some of the most toxic substances available, and no one complains about outlawing them. Yet marijuana has much fewer side effects and health risks associated with it, but cops . (While we're at it, let's outlaw the manufacturing of bathtubs; after all, some kid could get in there and drown.)
And many of these moral guardians who support the war on drugs have "danced with Mary Jane" before. But do they think that kids will be kids and thus tolerate small usage? No, they act like hypocrites and deny people the same freedom they once had.
Good post. You bring up excellent points.
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