Argument Rough Draft 21 And 26
Argument Rough Draft 21argument Rough Draft 26argume
From a medical perspective, marijuana relaxes the nerves, and that means that it can have positive effects on the patients who have conditions which affect the nerves. Cancer patients are the people who are likely to benefit with the legalization of marijuana, and this is because it helps them to relax their nerves during their hardest situation (Campbell, Twenge, & Carter, 2017). When a substance is proven to have medicinal value, it is essential to consider its legalization. When marijuana is administered medically, it is evident that it is not likely to come with effects. It is essential to remember that one of the reasons why marijuana is affecting people is because they abuse the substance.
Arguing that marijuana should not be legalized because it is abused is not logical. The reason behind it is associated with the fact that any substance that is abused is likely to have negative effects on the body of the abuser (Campbell et al., 2017). A good example, in this case, is the consumption of sugar. When one consumes a lot of sugars, he or she is exposed to the risks of getting diabetes as well as becoming obese.
Therefore, all that is needed is for prescription of the best quantity to take and how regular one should take it. Without fear of doubt, even when marijuana is not legalized, it is still providing employment opportunities (Schwartz, 2017). The fact that marijuana is still illegal in some nations does not rule out that it is still consumed in abundance. However, the way it offers employment is selective because only the people who are ready to risk it get to work for the drug lords (Ghosh et al., 2017).
The legalization of marijuana will have a lot of effects when it comes to employment. People will stop hiding, and the peddlers will no longer work on street corners, but they will own shops. As a result, more people will have formal employment where they will not work fearing for their lives. Business activities that are legal and take place in the country are taxed. The same case applies to most of the goods that are sold unless the government chooses to waive the tax on specific products.
When one opens a shop that sells marijuana, the person will be subjected to all procedures that must be followed while opening a business. One procedure is having a license to operate (Ghosh et al., 2017). The state government charges for all licenses and that means that it will have more businesses to charge. As a result, the tax will increase, and this means that marijuana will also contribute to the development of the state.
Another benefit is associated with the state government staff. The state government employs its workers based on the responsibilities that are in place (Schwartz, 2017). The fact that more businesses will be added makes it clear that the government will need more workers and that means that the legalization of the substance will also come in handy to increase employment opportunities in the government.
Paper For Above instruction
The debate over the legalization of marijuana has been a contentious issue worldwide, provoked by both cultural and scientific considerations. Advocates argue that marijuana has legitimate medicinal benefits and economic potential, while opponents cite concerns over addiction, mental health, and societal safety. This essay explores the nuanced arguments for and against the legalization of marijuana, highlighting the importance of evidence-based policy-making and respect for cultural diversity in the discourse.
Introduction
Marijuana, scientifically known as Cannabis sativa, has been used for medicinal, recreational, and religious purposes for centuries. Yet, its legal status remains a subject of intense debate, often reflecting broader societal values and scientific uncertainties. The emerging trend of legalization across various states and countries underscores the necessity to examine both the potential benefits and risks associated with this substance. Policies surrounding marijuana must balance public health interests with economic opportunities, while respecting cultural norms and individual freedoms.
Arguments Supporting the Legalization of Marijuana
One primary argument in favor of legalization concerns its medicinal utility. Scientific research demonstrates that marijuana contains cannabinoids that can alleviate symptoms such as chronic pain, nausea, and muscle spasms (Abrams & Couey, 2017). For example, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy often experience severe nausea and pain, which can be mitigated through medicinal marijuana (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2010). As a result, legalization facilitates access to these therapeutic benefits, improving patients' quality of life.
Economically, marijuana legalization has been shown to generate substantial tax revenues and create employment opportunities. Legal markets reduce illegal trafficking, which often funds organized crime, thereby enhancing societal safety. Colorado, one of the pioneers in recreational marijuana legalization, reported significant tax income, which funded public education, healthcare, and infrastructure (Colorado Department of Revenue, 2020). Moreover, regulated markets ensure quality control, reducing the risks of health emergencies caused by contaminated or adulterated products (Davis & Denning, 2019).
From a criminal justice perspective, legalization reduces incarceration rates related to non-violent drug offenses. The diversion of law enforcement resources from petty drug crimes allows focus on more serious crimes, fostering a more equitable justice system. Furthermore, legal frameworks can regulate and limit youth access, paralleling alcohol and tobacco controls, thereby minimizing adolescent exposure (Macleod et al., 2019).
Arguments Opposing the Legalization of Marijuana
Opponents argue that marijuana is addictive and can lead to adverse health effects. The drug's psychoactive component, THC, impacts brain development, particularly in adolescents, potentially resulting in impaired cognitive functions and heightened risk of mental health disorders such as schizophrenia (Hall & Degenhardt, 2014). Epidemiological studies indicate that early and frequent use correlates with increased incidences of depression, anxiety, and psychosis (Reinherz et al., 2017).
Legalization may also exacerbate societal issues such as increased consumption among youth, who may perceive the drug as less harmful due to its legal status. This normalization could hinder efforts to reduce drug abuse and facilitate the transition from casual use to dependency (Meier et al., 2012). There are concerns that marijuana acts as a gateway drug, potentially leading users to experiment with more dangerous substances like opioids and cocaine (Gage et al., 2018).
Moreover, opponents worry about the impaired driving and accident rates associated with marijuana use. Evidence suggests that THC impairs motor coordination, reaction time, and decision-making, which increases the risk of traffic fatalities (Hartman & Huestis, 2013). Consequently, legalization could pose public safety challenges requiring extensive infrastructure for law enforcement and roadside testing.
The Middle Ground: A Bipartisan Perspective
Recognizing the polarized nature of marijuana debates, a bipartisan approach emphasizes the need for rational, scientifically grounded policies that respect cultural diversity. Certain cultures have historically viewed marijuana as taboo, while others integrate its medicinal use into traditional practices (Kaur & Singh, 2018). Therefore, tailored regulations respecting cultural norms are essential.
Advocates of a balanced approach argue that legalization should be accompanied by rigorous research, public education, and strict regulation to mitigate harms while maximizing benefits. For example, establishing age restrictions, quality standards, and restrictions on marketing can control misuse (Hall & Weier, 2017). Engaging stakeholders across sectors—healthcare, law enforcement, education, and community groups—can foster comprehensive policies that moderate risks while respecting cultural heterogeneity.
Conclusion
The legalization of marijuana presents complex challenges and opportunities. While evidence suggests medicinal benefits and economic advantages, concerns over health risks, societal impact, and cultural sensitivity remain pertinent. Formulating effective policies requires a nuanced understanding of scientific data, cultural contexts, and societal values. Moving forward, evidence-based regulations, public education campaigns, and cross-sector collaboration will be vital in navigating this contentious issue responsibly.
References
- Abrams, D. I., & Couey, P. (2017). The Medical Use of Cannabis: Salient Legal and Ethical Considerations. Neurotherapeutics, 14(4), 792–798.
- Colorado Department of Revenue. (2020). Marijuana Tax Data. https://cdor.colorado.gov/data/marijuana-tax-data
- Davis, A., & Denning, P. (2019). Quality Control in Legal Cannabis Markets. Journal of Public Health Policy, 40(2), 136–147.
- Gage, S. H., et al. (2018). Adolescent Substance Use and the Gateway Hypothesis: A Review. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 188, 66–81.
- Ghosh, T. S., et al. (2017). Lessons learned after three years of legalized, recreational marijuana: The Colorado experience. Preventive Medicine, 104, 4–6.
- Hall, W., & Degenhardt, L. (2014). The Adverse Health Effects of Non-Synthetic Cannabis Problems. New England Journal of Medicine, 370(20), 1979–1987.
- Hall, W., & Weier, M. (2017). Has marijuana legalization increased marijuana use among US youth? JAMA Pediatrics, 171(2), 106–108.
- Kaur, R., & Singh, P. (2018). Cultural perceptions and attitudes towards cannabis use. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 210, 22–28.
- MacLeod, J., et al. (2019). Impact of Cannabis Legalization on Public Safety: A Review. Criminology & Public Policy, 18(2), 351–371.
- Meier, M. H., et al. (2012). Persistent Cannabis Users Show Neuropsychological Decline from Childhood to Midlife. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 109(40), E2657–E2664.
- National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2010). The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids. The National Academies Press.
- Reinherz, H. Z., et al. (2017). Cannabis Use and Mental Health: Evidence and Considerations. Journal of Adolescent Health, 60(3), 231–236.