By Legalization A Social Question As Well
Proponents of legalizing marijuana argue that it has no severe or lasting effects and thus, is harmless. Nevertheless, law enforcement agencies have a vested interest in considering the soc as well as medical consequences of drug use. Irrespective of its health and behavioral consequences for users, marijuana participates in what can be broadly construed as a drug culture. Although “marijuana: the gateway drug” is a tired sentiment, the truth is that, while marijuana itself does not encourage further drug use, a person who uses marijuana is more likely to use other drugs than a person who does not.
Moreover, to legalize marijuana, or even to lessen the penalties for illegal sale and use of the controlled substance, would be merely complying with the wishes of those who want to break the law. Obviously we will not reduce the penalty for robbery because some members of society take pleasure in the act, nor will we do so for rape or murder. Marijuana may indeed have few or no lasting effects, but if the substance is legalized and it becomes more common, the effects it does have – impairment of judgment, for instance, which leads to automobile accidents or other injuries – may become more common as well.
Ultimately, the use of narcotics is best engaged in by prescription from and under the careful supervision of a doctor. As a body of research continues to outline the prevalence of caffeine addiction, it is clear that the use of any substance, however seemingly benign, can have severe consequences if not carefully monitored.
