http://freakonomics.com/2014/01/10/who-does-marijuana-legalization-hurt/
http://www.forbes.com/2005/06/02/cz_qh_0602pot.html
http://www.economist.com/news/leaders/21593455-how-tax-and-regulate-marijuana-bongs-and-bureaucrats
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ranjit-dighe/legalize-marijuana-economic-argument_b_4695023.html
Where do you stand on the issue? Should marijuana be legalized? Read the 4 articles linked above and use them to answer the following questions.
- Explain the strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana?
- Explain the strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana?
- Why does Milton Friedman think marijuana should be legalized?
- Where do you stand on the issue? Defend your position and be sure to include relevant arguments cited within the articles. You may also provide additional arguments that are not discussed in the included links.
132 comments:
The strongest argument in favor of marijuana legalization came from both Milton Friedman and theeconomist.com. It pertains to the fact that the 19 million pot smokers in America could be taxed by the government. According to Friedman, “Ending prohibition enforcement would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending.” In turn, it would also yield up to $6.2 billion a year. This could put a dent in the astronomical debt the nation is facing.
The strongest argument against legalizing marijuana is that it will socially and economically hinder poor, black communities further. The abuse of marijuana and its prevalence in those communities would only worsen if marijuana was legalized, according to Reihan Salam. He stated, “People raised in chaotic households, people who suffer from poor impulse control, and people who live in violent, high-poverty neighborhoods who will suffer the most.”
Milton Friedman believes in the legalization of marijuana, for it could bring in massive revenue in taxes for the government. They could save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending and yield $6.2 billion in revenue. Also, he notes that, “large beneficiaries might include large agricultural groups like Archer Daniels Midland and ConAgra Foods as potential growers or distributors and liquor businesses like Constellation Brands and Allied Domecq.”
I think that marijuana should be legalized; however, it should be introduced slowly to a few more states at a time. If the outcome is positive, more states could be included. I mainly believe this due to Milton Friedman’s argument. The U.S. has such massive debt, and taxing pot smokers would be an efficient way to rake in revenue. Colorado is already setting a marijuana tax at over 25%, which will definitely bring in millions. Also, numerous gangs and dealers bring violence to the streets over weed, which endangers others and crowds jails.
Arianna D
The strongest argument many make in favor of legalizing marijuana is the fact that it will help bolster the economy. Famed economist Milton Friedman suggest that the legalization of the drug will provide for $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending and will also entail for $6.2 billion in tax yields. He also cites that many people are using marijuana do to the poor government enforcement, so legalizing the drug will afford for government intervention of it making it safe and providing for revenue for the federal government. To reaffirm his argument, Steven Levitt believes that marijuana does not promote violence as gangs do not engage in such sales.
The strongest argument against the use of marijuana is that it leads to a chemical imbalance in the brain in which the user is not in the right state of mind. This can be similar to that of alcohol use and how the person under the influence is impaired and cannot perform everyday functions as they normally would. Another argument to coattail the previous one is that if the government does too much intervention in the marijuana market, regulation will have an opposite affect; the black market for the drug will flourish and defeat the purpose of legalizing it in the first place.
Friedman’s argument for the legalization of the drug is for the most part for economic reasons. He cites that it will provide for $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending and will also entail for $6.2 billion in tax yields. He goes on to state that the medical side effects of the drug are lesser than that of other controlled substances such as alcohol. Friedman goes on to say, “Look at the factual consequences: the harm done and the corruption created by these laws...the costs are one of the lesser evils.” He believes that, all and all, the legalization of the drugs economically speaking will outweigh the social factors of it.
I find there to be pros and cons to both sides of the argument in regards to the legalization of marijuana in the United States. Certainly, the legalization of the drug entails for huge economic incentives for the government, yet it will provide for many Americans to be under the influence of drugs more now than ever before. I personally find that the drug should be used for medical purposes as of right now as studies have proven the drug’s effectiveness on certain diseases. This will provide for some economic incentives, although not the amount projected if the drug was open for full legalization. I believe that giving drugs the green-light for public usage in American society is a slippery slope that we should not tread on. There are side effects such as brain cell damage and users to put others at danger when operating machinery while under such influence. We must first look to see what good comes from the legalization for medicinal purposes then make a judgment as to whether it should advance to public usage.
James Allen-Period 7
1) The strongest argument for legalizing pot is that it could lower law enforcement costs. Many of the prisoners in jail today are imprisoned for having some type of drug possession. If we passed legislation to legalize marijuana, we could release people who were arrested for minute amounts of marijuana. This would decrease the cost needed to take care of prisoners while they are imprisoned since there could possibly be less prisoners, which means we could allocate taxpayer money towards something else, like infrastructure, etc.
2) The strongest argument against legalizing pot is that it could be harmful to a person’s health. Some possible side-effects of marijuana include rapid heartbeat, and the weakening of the immune system. It is also unsafe to use marijuana during a pregnancy because it could possibly slow the growth of the women’s fetus. Marijuana is also addictive and could give you a sensation of being high. Being high while driving can upsurge your risk of getting into an automobile accident. Marijuana can be a very dangerous drug not just for an individual, but could put others in danger, which is why this is a strong argument against legalizing pot.
3) Milton Friedman basically thinks that marijuana should be legalized because $7.7 billion of federal and state spending could be saved. In my opinion, that saved money could be allocated towards other parts of an annual budget. Also, he basically believes that billions of dollars could be made by the government if they legalized marijuana and taxed it. Also, large agricultural groups and liquor businesses can benefit from marijuana being legalized, which could lead to growth in those industries, which could mean they may hire more employees, which could decrease the United States’ unemployment rate.
4) I do not want marijuana to be legalized to the entire public because people are already having problems with drugs that are legal. For example, many people get charged with DUI because they make the stupid, injudicious, and indiscreet decision of getting into their vehicle when their vision is impaired and their reflexes aren’t up to par. Also, many people get horrible diseases like Cancer because they smoke cigarettes. We don’t need another drug to be legalized to the entire public because many people can’t even make wise decisions involving drugs that are already legalized in the United States. Plus, marijuana has many bad side-effects and according to Ranjit Dighe, “Opponents claim that medical costs will go up and workplace productivity will go down.” In conclusion, marijuana should not be legalized to the entire public, but medical marijuana should be legalized.
1. The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that it would bring in a lot of new revenue for the states. If marijuana is legalized, then states could regulate and tax marijuana. As a result, states would be able to bring in more money. Since marijuana is currently illegal, it is part of the underground economy and does not bring in any money to states nor does it count towards GDP. Instead, it costs states money to incarcerate people who sell and smoke marijuana.
2. The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that it would harm society. For example, some people claim that the legalization of marijuana would cause many more Americans to start smoking it because it would be so easily accessible. Some people also believe that marijuana is a “gateway” drug and would cause people to start using other, more dangerous, drugs as well. As a result, worker productivity would decrease, which would actually have negative effects on the economy and GDP.
3. Milton Friedman believes that marijuana should be legalized because there is a potential for a lot of money to be made. For instance, ending the prohibition of marijuana would save $7.7 billion in state and federal funding. States would also be able to make $6.2 billion a year if they could tax marijuana. Besides the money that could be made, Friedman also believes that the lack of government regulation of marijuana is responsible for the deaths of thousands of people. Overall, he believes that legalizing marijuana would benefit the United States and its citizens.
4. I have always been unsure of exactly where I stand on the legalization of marijuana. I think that it is wrong of a government to condone any substance that is only going to harm its citizens (i.e., alcohol and cigarettes). However, people want to use these substances and will get them and use them whether or not they are legal, so federal and state governments might as well benefit. Thus, I think that marijuana should be legalized, even though I don’t agree with the usage of it. I do think that it is a waste that states are spending so much money ($7.7 billion) on the prohibition of marijuana when they could be making a lot of money every year ($6.2 billion) from taxing it. I also think that government regulation of marijuana could be beneficial as well. For example, people will know they are smoking pure marijuana. New jobs would also be created because marijuana will have to be grown and sold commercially. Some studies have also suggested that marijuana is less harmful than cigarettes and alcohol, so perhaps people smoking more marijuana and using less cigarettes and alcohol will be good for society. Overall, I think that the legalization of any substance that has the potential to do harm to a society needs to be handled with extreme thought and caution in regard to all the consequences, good and bad.
Megan Courtney P. 3
1.The strongest argument in favor of marijuana is it’s economic benefit. It’s projected to make a lot of money for businesses and the government if it becomes legalized. In the Forbes article, they mentioned how it could increase revenue up to $6.2 billion. The government would be able to tax every step of the marijuana sale from growing it to selling it an even a tax to use it. They could charge for licensing storeowners and farmers who produce it. Also, the cost of prosecuting people for marijuana use or possession or trafficking will decrease because now it will be legal. Businesses will also benefit because farmers can now grow a new product. Also jobs could be created because new factories and other businesses associated with distribution will be created in order to supply marijuana. They could have more regulation of the product and control it so that it is less harmful.
2. The strongest argument against marijuana is its effects on people. It is a drug that affects how a person functions and their health. But also, Freakonomics suggests that with the legalization of marijuana will cause a drop in price and lead to more widespread usage that could potentially hurt low-income families. Some people suggest that with the legalization there will be more usage of marijuana, but anyone who want to use it already is. So by making it legal, the people who were using it in the first place are now just doing so legally.
3. Milton Friedman thinks marijuana should be legalized because of its economic benefit on the US. He thinks it could save $7.7 billion in state and federal spending combined. Also adding taxation to the sales could increase revenue by 6.2 billion dollars. He doesn’t think there is a logical reason for prohibiting marijuana.
4.I think marijuana should be legalized. I think that the economic benefits of legalizing it are convincing enough to legalize it. I also agree with the point made in one of the articles that the people who are going to smoke pot are doing it already so to make it legalized wouldn’t increase the amount of users. Also the fact that it has fewer effects than alcohol and its less addictive than smoking cigarettes makes it less harmful than those drugs and should also be a reason to legalize it. I believe that if it is legalized the government should strongly regulate it and that should be a reason to legalize it. If the government legalizes marijuana then they can control it, like alcohol. They can control who buys it and who sells it and how much is sold. They can control when and where you can smoke it and other things. It would be better if marijuana was legalized and it would actually help the people who are already using it.
Jessica D
Argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that it would save the government about $7.7 billion dollars between the state and federal government. If smoking marijuana replaces drinking liquor then it may actually be good for public health. “People are allowed to have bad taste.”
Argument against the legalization of legalizing marijuana is that it will decrease the price of it and it will increase the consumption. As a result having immeasurable consequences mostly in high poverty areas. Additionally, it will increase the risk of schizophrenia and undermine motivation.
Milton Friedman wants to legalize marijuana because of the increase in government revenue. The $7.7 billion dollars is something he sees will out way and negatives that come along with legalizing it.
I have a hard time deciding where I stand on the issue. On one side I feel that it is already being used by so many people which according to the economist is 32 million Americans is a year. Being that so many people use it we might as well legalize it have it be taxed. However, if legalized the consumption of it is going to increase so greatly that it could negatively impact society. The economist talks about how most people put away for marijuana use are criminals in some other way as well. Making it legal could make society as whole more dangerous.
1. The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that it is much less harmful to people than other currently legal substances, such as cigarettes and alcohol. Additionally, it has medical applications.
2. Although marijuana does not have any physical side effects, it is known to be detrimental for mental health: it can cause schizophrenia and decrease a person’s motivation. It also heavily impairs decision-making skills while under the influence. There is also speculation that it can cause some forms of cancer (such as lung cancer), but there is no conclusive research in either direction on this.
3. Milton Friedman supports legalizing it because he believes it would net the United States $13.9 billion a year. According to Friedman, the “sin tax” on weed could give the US an extra $6.2 billion a year, and that it would save the country $7.7 billion in enforcement costs.
4. I support the legalization of marijuana for medical uses, because I see no reason to keep something with medical purposes illegal. I do not support the legalization of pot for recreational purposes though, because I don’t believe the money that we would be making in taxes would offset potential increases in medical costs. I also do not believe that law enforcement costs would decrease, because we would have to crack down on “driving while high”.
1.The strongest reason for legalizing marijuana is the fact that it is less harmful than alcohol. President Obama has even agreed with this statement in a New Yorker interview. For evidence, economist Anderson and Rees “found that semi legalization in 16 states led adults to consume more marijuana but to moderate their alcohol consumption, leading to a 9 percent decrease in traffic fatalities.” Marijuana also hasn’t been found to be physically addictive.
2.Legalizing and taxing marijuana would not have as large of an impact economically as thought. The increased tax benefits would be $6 billion, which is only less than 1 percent of the federal deficit. Even reduced prohibition enforcement benefits are still small, only $10 billion.
3.Milton Friedman thinks that marijuana should be legalized. He believes that the harm done and corruption present are worse than the cost “evils”. Ending prohibition would save $7.7 billion while taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion per year. Friedman states that the worst part is the failure to enforce laws. He believes that this failure is responsible for thousands of deaths in Columbia. In addition, it harms young people. He thinks that the most disgraceful part is the fact that the use of marijuana for medical purposes in denial.
4.I think that it should be legalized, but the usage should be strictly watched. I strongly agree with the statement that marijuana will be greatly regulated and would have to go through numerous safety checks. I think that the only way for this to work was to have clear labels and any producers or sellers would have to be licensed. I also believe that it should be legalized because prohibition has failed with their criminal penalties that have tried to prevent marijuana use. Marijuana is still used by over 25 million people annually. Legalizing marijuana would also decrease the needs for the black market. This would decrease the economic incentive present for selling marijuana to each other.
Explain the strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana? The strongest argument in favor of legalizing pot is the economical benefits of doing so. Apparently, according to Forbes.com, legalizing marijuana would save a lot of money. Enforcing the marijuana laws is incredibly costly and taxing the controversial drug would bring in an estimated 6.2 billion dollars in revenue.
Explain the strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana? The best argument against the legalization of marijuana is that its price will drop. If the prices drop, then more people will use it and this can result in a major change of drug culture in the United States
Why does Milton Friedman think marijuana should be legalized? Milton Friedman thinks pot could be used as a means of revenue. He also believes that large retail stores, such as Home Depot, will benefit from selling it.
Where do you stand on the issue? Defend your position and be sure to include relevant arguments cited within the articles. You may also provide additional arguments that are not discussed in the included links. I do believe that marijuana should be legalized, along with a few other non-addictive drugs. My reasoning relates to the alcohol epidemic. I will never understand why it is socially acceptable to be drunk rather than high; listen, if you see some guy at a baseball game shouting at an opposing fan in a slurred and malicious tone, is he high or is he drunk? Also, there is no such thing as a death by pot overdose. Alcohol poisoning, however, is still prevalent. I also do believe that pot-smokers are more peaceful people than drunks or unpleasant sobers. Try to get two people on pot to fight each other, it won’t happen. None of these pot smokers will ever attempt to drive a car in such paranoia either, as the alcoholics do. Some will say that there is nothing wrong with pot, yet it is a gateway drug. There is a simple method to overcoming this problem… fixing education and using common sense. Obviously, heroin is bad. It will create immense consequences everyone who tries it, so don’t try it kids. Anyway, It doesn’t make logical sense that ¾ of the gateway drugs are legal, while pot isn’t. I feel that drug education in the United States tries to lump every drug together as if they are all the same. As part of personal experience, I remember a program called DARE visiting our school and making it seem like we will all explode if we smoke a joint just once. I have never smoked pot, but I don’t believe its adverse effects would be that significant. Pot is different from the others, so teach it that way. Economically, I do support the idea that government revenue will go up once pot is legalized, but it won’t be so great. Socially, some people accept pot smoking while others don’t, so marijuana use won’t skyrocket at some claim it will.
Ben C.
Eda A.
After reading these four articles, I believe that marijuana should be legalized because the social and economic benefits of legalization outweigh the possible costs. The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana was that it would have a positive social impact in that marijuana users with no other crimes would no longer be stigmatized as criminals. Additionally, legalized marijuana would theoretically be safer (not laced with any other drugs) than marijuana obtained illegally off of the black market. For the 19 to 32 million people who currently use marijuana, legalization would have a very positive impact. Also, several medical studies show evidence that marijuana is not addictive and is even a better alternative to alcohol and cigarettes. This is a strong argument in favor of marijuana use in place of those other vices. The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is posed by Reihan Salam, stating that legalization of marijuana may increase marijuana usage and harm poor minority populations. I understand how this argument may be true, but I believe there is no way to prove it other than legalizing marijuana and studying its effects on these populations. Milton Friedman thinks that marijuana should be legalized because of the negative social impact prohibition laws have. Namely, he mentions the deaths in Colombia that are caused by our failure to successfully enforce prohibition laws. He also mentions the criminalization of marijuana users who may otherwise be upstanding people. He argues that legalization of marijuana would erase this stigmatism and have an overall positive social impact. I believe that this is the strongest argument for legalization, and I agree with this argument and the legalization of marijuana. I think that legalization of marijuana will have positive social impacts. Additionally, I think legalization will enable easier regulation of marijuana sales, which would have both positive social and economic impacts. Legalizing marijuana would also enable its taxation, which would increase revenue for the U.S. government. Additionally, the government would save money from not having to enforce prohibition laws. While the amount of increased revenue may be small compared to the government’s deficit, legalizing marijuana would have a net profit for the U.S. government, however small it may be comparatively. This, combined with the positive social impacts for current marijuana users, prompts me to support the sentiment that marijuana should be legalized.
Matt A.
1. The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that it will produce a large amount of money, which will significantly benefit the economy. The United States is wasting billions of dollars on the “War on Marijuana.” Instead, legalizing marijuana would generate billions of dollars and would significantly cut the federal deficit. Rather than wasting money on trying to enforce this law, we could use that money for more important aspects in the economy.
2. The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that it would cause a collapse in the price of marijuana and this price fall will lead to unpredictable consequences. It is likely that a post legalization world would cause more harm to the people in poverty than the wealthy. In a similar level, it’s the people who are raised in disordered households, have poor impulse control, and people who live in brutal, low-income neighborhoods that would suffer the most. Drug use is dangerous to people behind the user, so problems involving violence or neglect of children by drug addicted parents may emerge from the acceptable use of marijuana.
3. Milton Friedman thinks that marijuana should be legalized because he supports the idea that legalization would save $7.7 billion in combined federal and state spending, while taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year. Friedman thinks that if the laws change, then large agricultural groups such as Archer Daniels Midland and ConAgra Foods would greatly benefit as potential distributors. Friedman believes that the causes of harm and corruption arise from the prohibition of marijuana. With marijuana legalized, Friedman thinks that crime rates would go down.
4. I think that marijuana should be legalized because it will help produce a great amount of money, which will expand the economy. With the legalization of marijuana, the United States would be cutting the federal deficit in an efficient way, rather than wasting billions of dollars on enforcing the law. There is a predicted amount of $7.7 billion saved in state and federal spending while taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year. The prohibition of marijuana has also damaged the lives of many people. People being caught with marijuana are being arrested which is negatively affecting their record. With this in hand, these types of people are less likely to be employed because of a foolish reason. About 19 to 32 millions of people would be benefit from the legalization of marijuana because they would no longer be treated as criminals. If marijuana would be legalized, then it would give these people new opportunities with their lives.
JJ Foley
1. I believe that the strongest argument on legalizing marijuana is the amount of potential revenue. Milton Friedman says that, “Ending prohibition enforcement would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending, the report says, while taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year.” With the United States in debt and unemployment still up around 7%, legalizing marijuana will help bring more money into the economy, as well as creating more jobs for the unemployed.
2. I believe the strongest argument opposing the legalization of marijuana is that is thought to undermine motivation, impairs ones jobs performance, and cause schizophrenia. Also, the marijuana usage is predicted to go up. This is bad because many people may loose motivation, and in the long run hurt the economy if many workers become discouraged.
3. Milton Friedman believes that marijuana should be legalized because it is economically right and morally right. Along with the $7.7 billion state and government savings and a $6.2 billion yield, it is morally right and can save lives. He believes that millions of lives will be saved in Columbia because it can stop illegal drug deals. Also, if people need it for medical reasons they should be able to use it.
4. I believe that they should not legalize marijuana. From the article from The Economist, when they mention the side affects of impaired performance and undermined motivation I believe that is enough to not legalize it. The economy will go to a peak through a few years, but then when many Americans are smokers and loose motivation the economy can go on a down fall. Also, a problem that has occurred in Colorado is that is hard to detect a stoned driver. Unlike Alcohol, one can use a breathalyzer test, but there is no one site test to test for marijuana. This means that many people can be driving stoned, but will not get caught.
Greg Chionchio
Explain the strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana?
The Government is able to spend less on prohibition and would be able to tax marijuana sales. In effect it will save the government $8 Billion while yielding $6 Billion in taxes, meaning there would be a net of nearly $14 Billion.
Explain the strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana?
It is a gateway drug that will lead people to try other drugs. It will increase the amount of people that will purchase and consume marijuana. Also, it hurts long term memory and lowers a person's productivity meaning that businesses will be less productive.
Why does Milton Friedman think marijuana should be legalized?
He believes it will net the government nearly $14 Billion due to the fact the government can tax it as well as the total cost of arresting pot users. Marijuana prohibition has also caused the deaths of thousands in Colombia and has ruined the lives of many young adults using the drug recreationally.
Where do you stand on the issue?
I'm fine with legalizing marijuana for medicinal use as for recreational use it will be hard to tell if its legalization will have a positive outcome for the country. I believe as a country we should see how it works in Colorado and decide whether or not it will benefit this nation.
(1) The strongest argument that supports for the legalization of pot is that it would save the government 7.7billion dollars per year as an additional 6.2 billion dollars in tax revenue also for the US. The government will also be able to prove its safety by being able to regulate the pot as well as make it safer to smoke for the consumers of the items. Somewhere around 19 to 32 million people will not have to go to jail or prison because of having pot on them and will save the federal prisons a ton of money because they will not have to house all these prisoners since it will be legal.
(2) The strongest argument against it is that it would cause workers to be less productive as well as it takes away the gateway drug pot is and would lead the young to try more worse drugs such as heroin and cocaine. If taxed to high it would allow for a black market price decrease therefore flourishing their sales and increasing crime in the US. Considering to legalize it would collapse to price and allow for more supply and would have unpredictable consequences.
(3) Milton Friedman believes it would be better to legalize it because it would allow for more revenue in NY state as well as the Feds. The government would be able to sin tax the marijuana for a bonus revenue and create economic prosperity per year. The farmers would benefit it because they would be large distributors of pot for the entire country. Overall he shows that he is in full support for pot to be legalized and creates a profit of 7.7 billion dollars per year.
(4) Where I stand is that, I believe it should be legalized because people should be able to make the choice if they want to smoke marijuana or not. We shouldn't be told what to do by our government and should be able to do what we would want to do. We would increase revenue by 7.7 BILLION dollars PER YEAR! It would help to decrease our deficit in our country significantly every year and create economic prosperity to further increase our economy. So therefore it should turn legal to further help out the people of the USA.
Tom Q.
The legalization of marijuana is a controversial subject because it is not just a matter of allowing people to use a drug, but a matter of making the drug easily attainable for everyone. Many people argue that it should be legalized, and they actually offer valid points. On the other hand, there are people who use the drug on a regular basis that also fight for it to be legalized, they do not offer very strong arguments. Legalizing marijuana can be a good thing because, obviously, it will be something that people will buy regularly. With legalization, stores can put it on their shelves and it will be taxed. Taxing marijuana could provide the government with a significant amount of money. But, legalizing marijuana will not exactly be the best move ever either because marijuana is a drug and it is dangerous. The government is not even able to control people with alcohol issues, putting marijuana in the mix will only cause more trouble. According to the freakonomics article, legalizing marijuana will hurt lower class people in chaotic households. These people probably already use the drug, it is evident that a lot of lower class people tend to smoke pot. Legalizing marijuana only incentivizes these people to use it more often because now they have no repercussions. This added use will only build on their already troubled lifestyles. Milton Friedman believes that legalizing marijuana will not only cut down on law enforcement expenses, but also yield a lot of tax revenue. He claims the amount of money that legalization will provide the United States is around fourteen billion dollars. Personally, I could not care less about whether or not pot is legalized. I understand the arguments both for and against its legalization and I think that both sides have strong points. I think the money it can provide would be very beneficial, but I also believe that people would abuse it to no end. If I had to pick a side, I would say legalizing it would be the better choice. It will only be a trend if it is legalized, I do not there will be a bunch of new potheads running around if it does end up becoming legal.
Grace Zhao
1. Legalization will make more dangerous drugs less accessible to marijuana buyers. Legalized marijuana will be safer to buy than marijuana obtained from drug dealers because it will be from licensed sellers in open and regulated markets. When purchased from drug dealers, buyers are susceptible to try more dangerous drugs because dealers can make higher profits off of more dangerous substances.
2. Legalizing marijuana will decrease its price and increase its consumption, which will have unpredictable consequences. This would disproportionally harm poor and black people because people raised in chaotic households, who suffer from poor impulse control, and who live in violent, poverty-stricken neighborhoods will be most influenced by marijuana.
3. Legalizing marijuana would save $7.7 billion in state and federal spending, and taxation would yield $6.2 billion each year. “Any added revenues from taxing legal marijuana would almost certainly be more than spent, by this or any other Congress.” Friedman argues that, “failure to successfully enforce [marijuana] laws is responsible for the deaths of thousands of people in Colombia.” Friedman finds it disgraceful to arrest youths for marijuana use and even more disgraceful to deny the use of marijuana for medicinal uses. He has “long been in favor of legalizing all drugs” because “the harm done and the corruption created by these laws” outweigh the costs of legalizing drugs.
4. I support the legalization of marijuana.
Both tobacco and alcohol have more adverse effects than marijuana, and they are legal. If marijuana usage displaces liquor consumption, it might actually benefit public health. A study by economists Anderson and Rees found that semi-legalization, in the form of medical marijuana, in 16 states led to a 9 percent decrease in traffic fatalities because adults were consuming more marijuana but moderating their alcohol intake. Marijuana has not been found to be physically addictive, and addiction rates of any kind are lower than for other drugs. Marijuana is typically consumed in small doses and has yet to be linked to a single death.
Decades’ worth of studies have disproved any link between marijuana and long-term memory loss or “amotivational syndrome”.
Studies have shown marijuana to be scarcely more of a gateway drug than alcohol, and the vast majority of marijuana users have never tried cocaine.
Legalizing marijuana means that 19 to 32 million people would no longer be treated like criminals and subject to arbitrary arrest, asset forfeiture, and other punishment while our judicial system is already clogged with higher offense criminals.
1. I think the strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that it is a drug that kills very few people and by legalizing it there would be a large amount of potential revenue gains from the government. By legalizing marijuana and ending prohibition of it, it would save over 7 billion dollars in both state and federal spending. Also for many, weed has large medical benefits in relieving intense pain.
2. The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that is can raise the risk of mental illness, such as schizophrenia, and undermine motivation. Also, if it is legalized and taxes are set too high, it will have higher sales within the black market which will lead people to get more dangerous strains of weed. Simply, it is a drug that alters your state of mind which can be detrimental.
3. Milton Friedman thinks that marijuana should be legalized because of it's potential revenue gains and the fact that it would save $7.7 billion dollars in both state and federal spending. Also, taxation of marijuana would gain up to $6.2 billion a year. He believes it should be legalized for financial and moral reasons. He says, "It’s absolutely disgraceful to think of picking up a 22-year-old for smoking pot. More disgraceful is the denial of marijuana for medical purposes.” He believes that it is not a serious offense and that it can also help with medical purposes.
4. I believe that marijuana should be legalized in the United States. While it is a mind altering drug, it is significantly less harmful than others, such as alcohol and cocaine. According to Freakonomics, "crack cocaine is a really devilish drug because it gives you such an intense high for such a short period of time that your desire is just to get high over and over and over...it’s really hard to function when you’re a crack addict." This is not the case with marijuana and it rarely kills people. People who want to smoke weed are going to smoke it whether it is legalized or not so it might as well be legalized. In addition, it provides incredible pain relief for both children and adults who suffer from injuries or illnesses. According to the Huffington Post, "Marijuana has not been found to be physically addictive, and addiction rates of any kind are lower for marijuana than for alcohol, tobacco and harder drugs." Therefore, a drug that is not as dangerous or addictive and has medical benefits should be legalized.
Allison K.
1. The strongest argument for the legalization of marijuana deals with the effects of the drug. While it may cause consumption to increase, it will not create negative impacts. The drug is less harmful than alcohol or tobacco, both of which are legalized. It will also cut down time and money spent on trying to control the prohibition of marijuana, as well as generate more tax money for the government to spend.
2. According to Freakonomics, the legalization of marijuana will cause a price collapse in the price of marijuana, which would increase consumption of the drug. This will have a negative effect on both poor people and blacks. People in these two demographics tend to grow up in chaotic households and have poor impulse control.
3. Milton Friedman thinks marijuana should be legalized because having marijuana prohibited in the U.S. leads to negative effects in Colombia. It is the reason for thousands of deaths in the South American country. Friedman also believes that the medical uses the drug has should be endorsed, instead of forbidden. He does not see a need for arresting people in their early 20s for marijuana use. Legalizing the drug would greatly decrease crime and corruption because so much of it is caused by the illegal dealing of the drug. The taxation of the drug, which has been estimated to be $6.2 billion a year in a Harvard study, will be usefully spent by Congress.
4. I think that marijuana should be legalized because it would be beneficial. The drug is less harmful than alcohol or tobacco because it is not physically addicting, nor has there been a single death credited to the use of the drug. People have believed that the drug causes long-term memory loss, but this has been found to be untrue. Legalizing the drug will cut down government spending by about $10 billion, as efforts will not have to be put towards enforcing prohibition. In addition, there is an estimated increase of $6 billion in taxes. There is a lot of crime surrounding the underground selling of marijuana. This will be cut down, if the drug is made legal.
Patrick Caldarelli
1. Explain the strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana?
Making marijuana legal will save states and the federal government money and money could be made through taxes. There is a possible $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending that will be saved and, $6.2 billion a year in taxes that could be taken in.
2. Explain the strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana?
Making marijuana will make governments money but very little in regards to the size of the Federal deficit. It is possible that states will have difficulty taxing the marijuana sales as many pot stores are conducting transactions with untraceable cash.
3. Why does Milton Friedman think marijuana should be legalized?
Friedman believes it should be legal because of the revenue it will generate, states and the federal government will save money previously used for things like law enforcement against pot and money will be generated from taxes on the drug. He also says that the demand for the drug in the US has lead to the death of others in South American countries in the drug trade.
4. Where do you stand on the issue? Defend your position and be sure to include relevant arguments cited within the articles. You may also provide additional arguments that are not discussed in the included links.
I think marijuana should be legalized but in small amounts and with restrictions. There is real potential for money to be made by states and the federal government both of which are dealing with lots of debt. Granted the money made will be minimal in comparison to overall spending; it is a start. There is also the issue of making sure business are paying the correct tax on the marijuana, as many are using cash only. Like Reihan Salam from Freakonomics says there is a problem with legalizing it, it leads to a price collapse which in turn will lead to an increase in consumption and “that will have unpredictable, and uneven, consequences.” The new legal marijuana should be closely monitored and if it is found to do more social harm than good and not enough money is made it should remain illegal.
1. The strongest argument in favor of legalizing pot is that it will save the government 7.7 billion dollars in spending and taxation could bring in 6.2 billion in revenue. This is because of the cost of enforcing marijuana prohibition and the possible taxes that could be levied.
2. The strongest argument against the legalization of pot is that the social costs of prohibition are low and it is not worth the uncertainty to legalize it. Since no economist can predict the future with 100% certainty, legalization carries inherent risk that outweighs the benefit of eliminating pot prohibition's low social costs.
3. Milton Friedman thinks marijuana should be legalized because it would eliminate 7.7 billion dollars in enforcement costs and raise 6.2 billion in revenue.
4. Ultimately I think pot should be legalized because of the potential revenue it could bring in and the costs it would eliminate. According to the forbes.com article, legalizing pot would eliminate 7.7 billion dollars in enforcement costs for police. Additionally, taxes could bring in 6.2 billion dollars in revenue from marijuana sales.
-Bryan Wehner
The strongest argument many make in favor of legalizing marijuana is the fact that it will help bolster the economy. Famed economist Milton Friedman suggest that the legalization of the drug will provide for $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending and will also entail for $6.2 billion in tax yields. He also cites that many people are using marijuana do to the poor government enforcement, so legalizing the drug will afford for government intervention of it making it safe and providing for revenue for the federal government. To reaffirm his argument, Steven Levitt believes that marijuana does not promote violence as gangs do not engage in such sales.
The strongest argument against the use of marijuana is that it leads to a chemical imbalance in the brain in which the user is not in the right state of mind. This can be similar to that of alcohol use and how the person under the influence is impaired and cannot perform everyday functions as they normally would. Another argument to coattail the previous one is that if the government does too much intervention in the marijuana market, regulation will have an opposite affect; the black market for the drug will flourish and defeat the purpose of legalizing it in the first place.
Friedman’s argument for the legalization of the drug is for the most part for economic reasons. He cites that it will provide for $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending and will also entail for $6.2 billion in tax yields. He goes on to state that the medical side effects of the drug are lesser than that of other controlled substances such as alcohol. Friedman goes on to say, “Look at the factual consequences: the harm done and the corruption created by these laws...the costs are one of the lesser evils.” He believes that, all and all, the legalization of the drugs economically speaking will outweigh the social factors of it.
I find there to be pros and cons to both sides of the argument in regards to the legalization of marijuana in the United States. Certainly, the legalization of the drug entails for huge economic incentives for the government, yet it will provide for many Americans to be under the influence of drugs more now than ever before. I personally find that the drug should be used for medical purposes as of right now as studies have proven the drug’s effectiveness on certain diseases. This will provide for some economic incentives, although not the amount projected if the drug was open for full legalization. I believe that giving drugs the green-light for public usage in American society is a slippery slope that we should not tread on. There are side effects such as brain cell damage and users to put others at danger when operating machinery while under such influence. We must first look to see what good comes from the legalization for medicinal purposes then make a judgment as to whether it should advance to public usage.
1. The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is the amount of money that would be saved by both federal and state governments instead of prosecuting criminals for marijuana use. Economist Milton Friedman claims that legalizing marijuana would save the federal and state governments $7.7 billion a year, and bring in $6.2 billion in tax revenue.
2. The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that it will negatively affect people who are raised in chaotic households, who suffer from poor impulse control, and who live in violent, high-poverty neighborhoods. Because of other societal factors, these characteristics are most often seen in poor or black households, and the legalization of marijuana would negatively impact these two groups.
3. Milton Friedman thinks marijuana should be legalized because of the negative effects it has on the young people of the United States who are caught with it today, and because of the thousands of people from Colombia who have died because of the drug. He also believes that we have a moral responsibility to legalize the medical use of marijuana. He sees no reason that 20 year olds should be arrested and have their lives ruined for marijuana use. He is also in favor of legalizing marijuana because of the money it will save in law enforcement and corrections and because of the tax revenue it would bring in.
4. I think that marijuana should be legalized because there seems to be no more negatives to its legalization than to the use of alcohol being illegal. While alcohol is physically addicting and responsible for many deaths every year, marijuana is neither addicting nor ever credited for the death of someone using it. Also, legalizing the drug would save the government billions in expenses in law enforcement and corrections, as well as bringing in billions in tax revenue. In addition, the legalization of marijuana would greatly reduce the large amount of crime that currently exists that revolves around the underground selling of marijuana and would make consumption safer for those who wish to use the drug.
1. The best argument for the legalization of marijuana is that it would decriminalize between 19-32 million americans. People who aren't necessarily a threat to society or detrimental to it would no longer be imprisoned for having something to do with marijuana.
2. The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that it causes demotivation. A demotivated american workforce would more than cancel out the economic benefits of legalizing marijuana. If it causes demotivation than companies won't want their employees smoking marijuana and will not hire people based off of that. Companies would also be less likely to operate in a country where marijuana is legal.
3. Milton Friedman believes that marijuana should be legalized in order to stop the corruption and harm that has come out of anti-drug laws. He points out that thousands are dying over conflict in Columbia to produce this because it's illegal in the US. It it's also wrong that a 22 year old man should be imprisoned and have his life completely ruined for being caught smoking marijuana.
4. I believe that marijuana should not be legalized in the U.S. The legalization of marijuana may bring in more in taxes for the U.S. government, but it would only be a temporary increase in the size of our economy. While studies have yet to prove that marijuana leads to demotivation, history has shown otherwise. In exchange for silk the British used to trade opium grown in India to China in order to even out the trade imbalance. However, millions in China became addicted to it and spent more time in opium dens than working at their jobs. This caused the Chinese government to ban opium. So while no modern studies prove that marijuana causes demotivation, I still believe that it would ultimately hurt the performance of our economy.
1. The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that it will have beneficial economic implications, such as decreasing spending on law enforcement to enforce laws banning marijuana and increasing revenue off of taxes made by the purchase of marijuana.
2. The strongest argument against legalizing marijuana is that it will negatively affect poor income families and communities, and that it will also negatively affect minorities such as African Americans.
3. Milton Friedman thinks that marijuana should be legalized because it will be beneficial to the economy, as the government can decrease spending on law enforcement and increase revenue off of taxes made by marijuana purchases.
4. I believe that marijuana legalization will be beneficial to the U.S. The positive economic consequences are the leading factor in why I believe that marijuana should be legalized. Also, legalizing marijuana would reduce gang violence in the U.S. and also violence abroad in places like Mexico and Colombia.
Kenneth Helbock
1) The strongest argument in favor of legalizing pot is the fact that it could potentially bring in billions of dollars of revenue for state and federal governments that are seeking additional revenue sources. This could help the economy as a whole because more public programs can be funded as well infrastructure improvement. The governments would have to set up a legal system where sellers would have licenses and the government could tax them. This way of selling marijuana on legal terms, through big and small regulated businesses takes the risk out of purchasing marijuana. Black market marijuana can be very dangerous and contain toxins that are horrible for the body.
2) Strong arguments against the legalization of marijuana would include the fact that we are not fully aware of the harmful effects marijuana usage can have on the body because too little research has been done on it. It causes the body to relax and stays in the system for up to a month, which can cause other problems. Also, the regulation of marijuana can be difficult because it is mostly a cash business, as well as like other foods it must be clearly labeled. Safety rules would have to strictly regulated.
3) Milton Friedman thinks marijuana should be legalized mostly because there is potential for revenue gains for governments if they tax it. Also, from an economists viewpoint, Friedman sees that ending drug enforcement would save $7.7 billion and tax yields would add up to $6.2 billion a year which would be substantial to the government. He believes the DEA has not done a good job at preventing marijuana from entering the US, so why bother spending money to fund it.
Friedman also sees a sufficient reason to use it for medical reasons, and thinks it is shameful to deny the use of marijuana for medical reasons. If it is fully legalized, large agricultural companies and liquor businesses would benefit greatly and would understand the distribution of intoxicants.
4) I think the arguments against marijuana outweigh the arguments for marijuana. Economic reasons are not a good reason to legalize something. Also legalizing marijuana can cause a collapse in the price of pot, making it more accessible and affordable for everyone, which can have unpredictable results. And also, there is more to just legalizing marijuana, the regulation of it can be difficult because technically anyone can grow it, so people that sell it should have licenses. I still don’t think that will prevent a black market for it. People may think that growing it themselves could be cheaper, which won’t bring in any tax revenue. Also it would be mostly a cash business which gives way for scandals and avoiding paying taxes.
1. After reading these four articles, I believe the absolute strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that 19 to 32 million American users would no longer be treated as criminals. “Criminal” has such a negative connotation and is usually associated with murders, robbers, etc.––not with active, positive members of society. Perhaps the best monetary pro-legalization argument is the large tax revenue the country would gain––according to the Forbes article, “ending prohibition enforcement would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending, while taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year” (Hardy). However, this analysis is much more than dollars and cents. Ranjit Dighe of the Huffington Post shared an anecdote within his article that explained how a “kindly older gentleman” from his neighborhood was arrested for possession of pot. He goes on to say how this gentleman never caused an inconvenience and was a great neighbor, yet his imprisonment was absolutely devastating to his wife, family, and the community as a whole. Decriminalization of marijuana (similar to alcohol prohibition––simply using it is not illegal) has taken effect in many states, however, this still puts buyers of the substance under criminal watch and does not diminish the already prevalent black market. Legalization of marijuana would let these tens of millions of Americans live normal lives and would not have their consumption choices scrutinized by the government.
2. The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is a combination of social concerns including increased use, decreased workplace productivity, and decreased productivity/motivation in general. Many people believe that if marijuana is legalized, individuals who have never used drugs before may be inclined to try this substance, ultimately leading to increased addiction among the general population. Other worries include a general lack of motivation among users in both the workplace and in personal pursuits because of its physiological effects on the body––including heightened mood, relaxation, and short-term memory loss.
3. Milton Friedman thinks marijuana should be legalized for both financial and moral reasons. In terms of spending on enforcement of the drug, Friedman believes that $7.7 billion dollars is “one of the lesser evils”. He says that we as a nation have not been able to successfully enforce the laws put in place (laws that, in his eyes, have created mass corruption), and as a result, are responsible for the “deaths of thousands of people in Columbia” and the great harm inflicted on young people. Friedman states, “It’s absolutely disgraceful to think of picking up a 22-year-old for smoking pot. More disgraceful is the denial of marijuana for medical purposes.”
4. Although I am indifferent towards using cannabis, after analyzing these four articles, I see no extreme, imminent dangers associated with its legalization. I completely agree with the “criminal” argument because of the drug’s relative safety. According to many reports and studies, marijuana is actually less hazardous than alcohol is. If so, then why are people getting arrested for possessing marijuana rather than a few bottles of vodka? Although it does have effects on the body, not one death has been associated with its use. Plus, as R. Dighe states, “our judicial system is clogged enough already with real criminals”. In addition, legalizing cannabis would enable to the government to allocate the drug’s tax revenue to other––more important––discretionary spending categories such as education.
The strongest argument in favor of legalization is the revenue the government can earn from taxation on it. The government can make over 6 billion dollars by legalizing weed and taxing it. Another largely argued theory is that pot is actually safer than consuming alcohol or tobacco. and by making pot legal people believe it will deter people from drinking and turn to smoking pot rather than drink. At the same time the government will save over 7 billion dollars when it comes to fighting the war on drugs, because as of now marijuana is characterized as a class one narcotic and many people every year are arrested for the procession and selling weed illegally. However if the government legalizes pot these arrests will end. On the opposite side of this argument the major arguments against legalization is the fear of an increase in pot smokers and also a decrease in production in the work place. People suggest by making pot recreational more people will be willing to smoke pot because of the legal issues eliminated. And in theory some people believe that the increase in use will translate into a less productive workplace. Milton friedman believes pot should be legal for the economic reasoning behind it that the government can make over 6 billon dollars in revenue from taxation and save 7.7 in spending on the war on drugs. I am personally pro legalization, as stated by the economist article pot is less harmful to the body than alcohol and tobacco. yes smoking can lead to lung cancer but there is no evidence as of now that smoking marijuana leads to lung cancer. and marijuana is all natural substance where as tobacco is laced with thousands of chemicals and tar which lead to a wide array of diseases. Pot is also not addictive like alcohol and cigarettes are and there have been no reported cases of people dying from marijuana ever when there are thousands of alcohol and tobacco related deaths everyday. And I also believe that the legalization of pot could greatly help the US economy and help us fight to get out of this debt we as stuck in. According to Milton friedman of forbes the government can make over 6 billion dollars in revenue and save over 7.7 billion in the war on drugs. so its essentially a win, win situation. And yes people do claim that legalizing pot would decrease production in the workplace but this statement is false. Just like it is unacceptable to show up to work drunk it would be unacceptable to come to work high if pot were legalized so nothing in the way of workplace production would change if pot were legalized. Overall I believe if pot is legalized it will greatly benefit the united states and its people. It will lower crime in the sense that there will no longer be a need for marijuana drug dealers and the black market for pot and also no longer will people be getting arrested for possessing weed. Also the increase in taxation revenue can definitely help us. So if the government carefully regulates and sells marijuana recreationally I think legalization will be a huge success.
S.R.
1. The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that its legalization can stimulate the economy, even further than recent strides, as did the 21st amendment. It would free up the money used to enforce it and also increase taxes.
2. The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that its legalization will drive the prices of it down, and this price drop will cause an increase in consumption with dire consequences.
3. Marcus Friedman advocates the legalization of marijuana because “ending its enforcement would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending” and “taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year.” He argues that the war on marijuana is a shame to the government which fails to enforce laws against its usage. This unsuccessful enforcement plus the number of deaths from marijuana are the biggest evil of our current situation. With the legalization of marijuana, Friedman assures that this greater evil will be better addressed, and that we can also have more funds to spend on other more important issues.
4. I believe that the recreational use of marijuana should be legalized because its legalization, although it may appear terrible, realistically should have minimal negative effects. Sure, more people might be willing to try marijuana because it’s legal. However, I believe that generally, people who smoke marijuana would continue to smoke it and people who currently don’t aren’t going to. Also, marijuana is not severely dangerous and has not been proven to be physically addictive unlike other drugs. 20 states as well as Washington D.C. have approved laws legalizing marijuana, thus its legalization in 30 more shouldn’t be catastrophic.
1) The strongest argument in support of the legalization of Marijuana would be that it would bring in billions of dollars every year and reduce the billions of dollars spent every year to enforce the ban on it. According an article written by Quentin Hardy on Forbes.com, he writes the U.S Government would save "$7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending" and taxation would earn "up to $6.2 billion a year".
2) The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that it is said that all the pros and cons of marijuana use aren't fully understood and that it may cause health risks to user.
3) Milton Friedman believes marijuana should be legalized because of the amount of money it would bring in. In his report, he wrote "Ending prohibition enforcement would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending" and "taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year." But it's not all about the money he says, “$7.7 billion is a lot of money, but that is one of the lesser evils. Our failure to successfully enforce these laws is responsible for the deaths of thousands of people in Colombia. I haven’t even included the harm to young people. It’s absolutely disgraceful to think of picking up a 22-year-old for smoking pot. More disgraceful is the denial of marijuana for medical purposes.” He believes that legalizing marijuana would end suffering and bring medicinal benefits to many Americans.
4)I believe marijuana should be legal in all states primarily for the amount of money it would bring to the states and the nation as a whole. Compared to tobacco products and alcohol, marijuana is much safer and doesn't have the destructive benefits that the alcohol and tobacco does. It would also lower crime as many people are arrested for possessing this drug and even sent to jail for something that shouldn't be considered a serious offense as compared to murder and rape. It would also remove drug dealers from selling their product on the streets as well.
1. The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that in doing so, around 19 to 32 million people would no longer be considered criminals. The majority of marijuana users are not murderers or serious criminals, they are harmless people who end up being subjected to imprisonment or other forms of punishment. Ranjit Dighe argues that penalizing these people prevents them from leading normal lives, and that the criminalization of marijuana has huge social and personal costs. He adds that prohibiting marijuana forces people to use the black market, which is a lot more unsafe than having a regulated market.
2. The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that it will increase consumption, especially in poorer populations, which will lead to decreased productivity in the workplace and higher medical costs. Opponents claim that the benefits are not great enough to outweigh the costs, because the economic revenue gained will not be significant when compared with the national deficit.
3. Milton Friedman says that saving $7.7 billion is not the most important reason to legalize marijuana. He argues that the immoralities of prohibiting marijuana are much greater (the death of thousands in Columbia due to the failure of enforcing prohibition laws, and the disgracefulness of prohibiting marijuana use for recreational and medical purposes).
4. I support the legalization of marijuana. I agree with Ranjit Dighe’s argument the most. It is not so much the economic benefit as is it the fact that I don’t believe people should be imprisoned for partaking in something that is not harmful. Some may argue that marijuana is harmful, but there are enough studies to prove otherwise. A study by economists D. Mark Anderson and Daniel I. Rees found that the semi-legalization of medical marijuana in 16 states led to a 9 percent decrease in traffic fatalities because people consumed more marijuana and less alcohol. In addition, there is not a single reported case of death from a marijuana overdose. I also don’t believe it is fair to deny medical marijuana to people who can really benefit from it, especially when other medications do not help them.
I think that the U.S should legalize Marijuana because of the outstanding economic benefits that would come from legalization. According to Forbes, the government would save 7.7 billion in law enforcement and also make 6.2 billion. That means that the government would make 13.8 billion each year with the legalization of marijuana. The crime rate would also decrease significantly if people aren't arrested for marijuana charges. The legalization would also discourage people from buying marijuana from illegal dealers. Legal marijuana is much safer than the marijuana from the streets because it is regulated by the government. The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that it will almost encourage people to try it because it would be much more accessible than before. Milton Friedman said that our failure to fully enforce marijuana laws caused the deaths of thousands of people in Columbia. I think that the economic benefits associated with the legalization of marijuana outweigh the cons. After all, if people really want to smoke marijuana, they will find illegal means of doing so. Christian Castelli
Legalizing marijuana would allow another outlet in income for the government. Along with that income comes regulation and less people crowding the jails for possession and other foolish things. People however believe that If you want to argue that marijuana usage is bad because the drug is addictive, destructive or harms productivity, then you have to show some evidence for these claims. Ample medical evidence suggests that marijuana is less dangerous than alcohol. According to Ranjit Dighe of the Huffington Post. Milton Friedman believes that tEnding prohibition enforcement would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending, the report says, while taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year, coming from Forbes. I believe the marijuana should be legalized due to the revenue that will be brought upon ending the prohibition of it because people are going to continue to use it legal or not, therefore we might as well make money from it. Milton Friedman also stands alongside legalizing and it would also lead us to stop setting up task forces for the war on marijuana.
-Bob
Ryan Egan
One of the strongest arguments supporting the legalization of marijuana is its inevitable reduction of black market trade and therefore increased regulation. Any market that can be taxed and regulated by the government will be much safer for both consumers and producers. Government intervention in the marijuana market will reduce illegal trade and the violence that is often associated with it.
The negative side effects of marijuana are one of the biggest factors slowing the legalization process. Many argue that marijuana increases the chances of psychological disorders and decreases motivation. Frequent users of marijuana, commonly referred to as stoners, seem to be thought of as lazy and unproductive. Although it is not a new drug, there seems to be some sort of "unknown factor." Observers are waiting to see the long term effects that the drug has on young adults in states that legalized marijuana, like Colorado.
Milton Friedman believes marijuana should be legal due to the costs for the United States that the current prohibition has, as well as the potential financial benefits that legalization could have. He argues that the prohibition and black market for marijuana have lead to deaths of thousands of people in both the Unites States as well as Central America that are involved somewhere in the production and illegal trade of the product. The taxes that the United States could impose on legal marijuana could generate billions of dollars for the United States. The agricultural sector of the United States could benefit from new revenue as growers of marijuana.
Personally I believe that for economic purposes, marijuana should be legalized. The tax revenue generated from such a widely used product could have some large effects on the United State's economic problems. Regulating the market could also help prevent crime related to the drug, which would help keep more people out of the prison system and reduce government spending on the prisons. To ensure the health of users, I think it would be a good idea for the government to wait at least 15 years to observe the long term effects that the drug has on users in controlled areas that it has been legalized in, like Colorado or Washington. If it proves to have minimal negative side effects, I think it would be smart to legalize marijuana.
1. The strongest argument for legalizing marijuana is that the government will be able to raise billions in tax revenues since there are an estimated 19 million frequent users of marijuana in the US. In addition, the government will be saving money since they would no longer have to endure the costs of imprisoning marijuana users.
2. The strongest argument against legalizing marijuana is that by legalizing marijuana, competition among "Pot Shops" will drive down prices, which would make marijuana more accessible and lead to an increase in its usage nationally. Since marijuana has been linked to permanent brain damage in young adults, an increase in its usage can have unpredictable, and very severe implications.
3. Milton Friedman thinks that marijuana should be legalized because of the billions in tax revenues the government could be earning. He also believes that the laws against marijuana are the cause of the corruption in the marijuana market and the harm done to people involved, which suggests that legalization of marijuana will lead to a clear drop in crime.
4. In my opinion, I don't think that marijuana should be legalized even though there may seem to be an economic benefit from doing so in the form of tax revenues. It seems very ironic to me that the government is trying to improve America's education system while it supports the legalization of marijuana. Typically, under-achieving school districts across the country are those with higher poverty levels and high crime rates. Legalizing marijuana will further degrade these districts because the government would be allowing easy access to a drug that is proven to cause brain damage in young adults. Our culture today already glorifies drug use in music and TV, so imagine what would happen if smoking marijuana suddenly became socially and LEGALLY accepted? Its usage would certainly increase and would set lower income communities further back than they already are.
1. The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that it would stop clogging up our judicial system. Prohibition enforcement for marijuana costs about $8 billion in state and federal spending. This is money that can be used to prosecute real criminals in our society. Our judicial system should not have to waste time and resources dealing with people buying and selling a product that is less harmful than alcohol or tobacco.
2. The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that fact that it can lead to an increase in consumption. If the government makes it easier and safer to obtain marijuana then there is nothing to stop people from consuming it all the time. This can have very dangerous consequences if people begin to show up to work or drive their cars while under the influence of marijuana.
3. Milton Friedman believes marijuana should be legalized for both moral and financial reasons. He believes it is “disgraceful” that young people are being turned into criminals just for smoking pot and that the government is denying the medical purposes of marijuana. Overall, he believes that all drugs should be legalized since the harm done and the corruption created by these laws are worse than the actual drugs themselves.
4. I believe that marijuana should be legalized in the U.S. If people want to smoke pot then they are going to find a way to smoke pot despite the risks. Therefore the government should make sure that the markets for marijuana are safe and regulated just like the markets for alcohol or tobacco. I do not think there are enough risks associated with the drug itself to justify the criminalization of smoking pot. There is not enough evidence that proves marijuana is any more dangerous than alcohol or tobacco. Overall, I think it is ridiculous that a person like the neighbor mentioned in the Huffington Post article is going to be a convict or ex-convict for the rest of his life just for possessing a recreational substance.
Brian I
1: There is a far greater impact upon society in the form of long jail sentences for nonviolent offenders. Also, economically it doesn’t make sense; legalising marajuana would save the government 7.7 billion dollars.
2: Legalisation could potentially harm minorities and the poor due to a sudden and unprecedented decrease in cost.
3: Friedman feels it is a moral dilemma in regards to people being unfairly prosecuted for drug charges. The dilemma also lies outside the US in regards to people in South America being killed due to the drug trade. He also feels it isn’t an economically sound idea to keep the current anti-pot legislation in place.
4: I’m personally in favour of legalisation; people should have the option to use the drug (assuming they’re aware of the risks associated with it), and the increase in tax money the legal sale of marajuana could add to the economy is beneficial, albeit small.
Nick Hymanson
The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is the fact that legalizing marijuana would save 7.7 Billion dollars in combined federal and state spending. Also taxation would give up to 6.2 billion dollars a year to the state and federal governments.
The strongest argument against legalizing marijuana is that if it is legalized the price of it will go down and the increase in consumption will cause unpredictable circumstances that can be detrimental to the society of the United States.
Friedman thinks marijuana should be legalized because it would help the United Sates government and decrease its pending while increasing the influx of money.Friedman thinks it's worth the risk due to the proven benefits that it will provide the government with and he says that this will even help with upcoming elections and people's decisions when it comes to who they vote for.
I believe that marijuana should be legalized, the amount of money that the government will receive is much needed and it is time to give everyone the freedom they deserve because in reality marijuana hasn't even been proven to be as harmful as cigarettes. The benefits out-weight the risks, therefore marijuana should be legalized in order for the federal and state governments to receive and achieve the economic potential that is possible in this country.
1. The best argument in favor of legalizing marijuana in the United states would be the 7.7 billion the government spends each year to enforce the anti-marijuana laws. In the age where the debt ceiling is a very real and reoccurring problem the government can't afford to spend almost 8 billion dollars on controlling a substance that in many places is actually quite available to people. By legalizing this substance the government could divert this money or even remove it as a whole in order to help the increasing debt crisis while creating a new source of revenue.
2. The best argument against this legalization would be the negative social effects it may have on the lower class populous. With the legalization of marijuana and its subsequent commercialization the supply of this substance will not doubt be plentiful and as a result will have a low price. This means it will be available to most people including youth and young adults. With easily obtainable marijuana young teens from a damaged or chaotic home would be able to purchase the substance in great quantities at relatively low prices. This would lead to a possible addiction of subsequent loss in drive and possible loss of future productivity.
3. Milton Friedman believes that marijuana needs to be legalized because there is no point on spending 7.7 billion dollars on a "lesser evil" in our country. He also feels there is no basis in which to ban marijuana. He also feels that these laws hurt young people in a multitude of ways. He goes as far as calling the arrest of someone like a 22 year old for marijuana "disgraceful" as well as commenting that the denial of medical marijuana is also "disgraceful"
4. I believe that marijuana should be legalized in the Unites States. In the age of advanced debt the 7.7 billion the US spends to enforce these laws could be more easily diverted in efforts elsewhere or toward the easing of US debt. This legalization will also add a new source of revenue that the government could tax and regulate as to benefit themselves. They could make it much like cigarettes in that they could make it pricey with taxes and limit who could have it. I cannot see the purpose of so intensely forbidding this substance when the more deadly substances of cigarettes and alcohol are legal. Finally when looking at prisons the United States Department of Justice said in 2011 48% of people in prison had been convicted on drug charges while just 8% were on violent charges. This needs to be changed as already packed prison could stand to be relieved by this. Legalizing marijuana will cut cost, increase revenue and alleviate the strain on prisons.
-Christian Ricardo
Kathleen Heslin
AP Economics
Period 6
1) Explain the strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana?
Advocates of pot legalization feel that it simply is not logical to ban marijuana - in the first place, it is not even as dangerous as alcohol, according to reports, and it does not ruin lives or have the disastrous consequences seen with cocaine addicts; and in the second place, the laws in place to keep it out of consumer hands have been remarkably ineffective - so legalizing the substance would save the large number of marijuana users much distress. 19 million people use marijuana each month, and since their habit does not usually turn them into vicious criminals or dysfunctional citizens, advocates feel that these people should not have to live in fear of being branded criminals for harboring this rather common vice.
2) Explain the strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana?
Opponents of the step feel that the legalization of marijuana will increase the consumption of the drug, which will adversely harm poor, disadvantaged, or minority populations by encouraging them to become hooked on the more widely available drug. Although marijuana is not as dangerous as heroin or even alcohol, it is nevertheless a drug, which can have negative consequences such as lung cancer, and it should not simply be released to the masses.
3) Why does Milton Friedman think marijuana should be legalized?
Friedman does not focus on the monetary benefit of legalizing and taxing marijuana. Instead, he thinks marijuana should be legalized because by unsuccessfully enforcing the laws that prohibit marijuana, the government has actually caused harm. He argues that the illegal trade of the drug has cost many lives in places such as Colombia and has ruined the lives of young people who have been arrested simply for smoking pot. He also suggests that the laws have caused corruption and that it is immoral to deny the substance for medicinal purposes.
4) Where do you stand on the issue? Defend your position and be sure to include relevant arguments cited within the articles. You may also provide additional arguments that are not discussed in the included links.
As an asthmatic who has seen several relatives die from lung cancer, I tend to cringe at the thought of releasing yet another drug to the masses - I’ve seen the negative effects that mere cigarettes can have on a person’s health, so I’m not naturally inclined to like the idea of encouraging more people to inhale a foreign substance. I’ve also seen fellow students and other people my age fall into the habit of using marijuana, and my experience suggests that using pot has not made them into particularly driven, productive citizens.
However, marijuana is, admittedly, one of the least harmful commonly used drugs, and it doesn’t seem logical to continue banning it. As a recent Harvard University economist suggests (see Forbes article), legalizing marijuana would save the government 7.7 billion dollars, and to be honest, it doesn’t seem as though those billions are being spent wisely. According to Ranjit Dighe’s Huffington Post article, 32 million Americans used marijuana in the last year, so the laws prohibiting it seem remarkably useless, and legalizing the drug would not flood the market with a rare substance that few have been able to obtain - it would simply remove the illegality of the habit and, as Dighe suggests, prevent quite a lot of people from gaining criminal record after joining the significant group of marijuana users. In addition, legalizing the drug would allow the government to regulate its use and sale, which would probably be better for the general population than allowing a sketchy and usually dangerous black market to flourish.
1) The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that the usage of it is less dangerous than cigarettes or alcohol. It has not been found to be physically addictive, with addiction rates lower than those for tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs. Also, it has been linked to a much lower number of deaths than other drugs.
2) The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that this will cause a decrease in the price of marijuana, which will result in an increase in the consumption of it. A dramatic increase in the usage of marijuana will increase health risks and have many negative consequences.
3) Milton Friedman thinks marijuana should be legalized because we would save $7.7 billion by ending prohibition enforcement, and would earn $6.2 billion a year from taxation. Also, he says failure to enforce the prohibition laws has caused many deaths and harm to young people, and that it's not right that someone should be denied marijuana if they need it for medical purposes.
4) I believe that marijuana should not be legalized, because the consequences outweigh the benefits. It is true that the decrease in the price of marijuana will increase the use of it , and this would lead to unpredictable consequences in the future. In the Freakonomics article, it says that the increase in consumption would harm the poor more than the rich, and people who live, in high-poverty, violent neighborhoods will suffer the most, and I agree with this. Also, marijuana use increases the risk of lung cancer and other problems, and I think once it is legalized, it could have as many or more negative effects than other legal drugs.
Recently there has been much debate over the legalization of marijuana. With many states like Washington and Colorado already legalizing recreational marijuana usage, many believe that federal government should legalize pot. One argument for it's legalization is that the federal government could gain revenue from taxes and regulation of pot. Still, many people believe that if we legalize marijuana, the amount of marijuana use would increase drastically. Milton Friedman argues that legalizing marijuana could save our government $7.7 billion. Personally, I believe that marijuana should be legal because it isn't harmful and legalizing it allows us to regulate it more strictly and eliminate the black market for the drug. Drawing parallels to the prohibition of alcohol, we can see that there maybe positive outcomes from legalizing marijuana. As far as whether it's usage will increase, we can not be sure. If we were to legalize the drug, it will not cause much harm because it isn't addicting and poses little to no health issues.
1)The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that there is less harm done in its legalization than its prohibition. It is not only extremely costly to enforce laws against its usage, but there is also not much evidence proving that it is harmful to the health of our society. The use of marijuana is actually shown to be much less harmful than alcohol use.
2) The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that it is bad for the health of individuals, as legalizing it will cause more people to use it which may cause lack of diligence in the workplace or be a gateway to more dangerous drugs.
3) Milton Friedman thinks marijuana should be legalized because it will not only save the government $7.7 billion by ending prohibition enforcement, but it will also generate about $6.2 billion per year from taxes.
4) I am in favor of the legalization of marijuana because it is not addictive and there is no substantial evidence proving its use to be damaging to your health. It is also less dangerous than alcohol and cigarettes. If people want to smoke pot, then they will, so I think that the government might as well make a profit from it through its taxation. It will also be safer for users since it will now have to be tested and approved with clear labels marking THC content so people will know exactly what they're getting.
Jesse M
1) The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that the selling of it can be taxed and it adds to the total revenue in the economy. It states in “Of bongs and bureaucrats” that banks feel they are at a high risk when it comes to buyers of marijuana, so credit cards are mostly not allowed to be used in the purchase of marijuana, therefore, it is mainly a cash business. Many businesses can cheat the tax system when cash is the main source of value in transactions. Despite this concept, being taxable and increasing the total revenue in the economy are the strongest arguments for the legalization because taxing a product that many people use (19-32 million) that is currently completely untaxed can only add to the money the government collects. Also, making money as a source of revenue in the economy rather than in the black market can increase GDP and continue to drive the market upwards.
2) The strongest argument against legalizing marijuana is that medical costs will go up and workplace productivity will go down. There has not been enough research done, but right now marijuana users are portrayed as being less motivated and therefore less productive at work. Also, it is suspected to cause schizophrenia.
3) Milton Friedman is for legalizing marijuana because of economic and moral reasons. For one, it would save $7.7 billion in state and federal spending, as well as yield up to $6.2 billion a year through taxation. He feels that the amount of people dying in Columbia, the harm to young people, and the picking up of young people for marijuana usage is “disgraceful.” And even more so is the denial of its usage for medical purposes.
4) I think that marijuana should be legalized with rules though. It should have a legal age like alcohol consumption. Like stated in the articles it is not as dangerous as alcohol and it hasn’t been seen to be the cause of any deaths yet (besides the overdoses on the legalization day in Colorado). It will be beneficial to society if more people use it instead of alcohol and hopefully lead to less car accidents. Also it will add to the nations revenue and it will help with taxation. By adding to the revenue it can add about $7.7 billion as stated in the article by Milton Friedman. This increase also increases GDP because money that was once in the black market is being counted into the real market. Also, it can give the government about $6.2 billion via taxes. This is not going to save the deficit, but it any increase can only help. It does have its loopholes in being mainly a cash business and therefore people will get away with not having it all taxed, but it will help in the overall picture. Lastly, the author of the last articles’ nice, older neighbor won’t be arrested and will be able to continue contributing positively to his community and family. Also, it will be available for medical usage.
Marijuana is defined as the dried leaves and female flowers of the hemp plant, used in cigarette form as a narcotic or hallucinogen. According to the federal government marijuana is considered an illegal substance. However, as of January 1st 2014 the state of Colorado has legalized its use. In recent years there has been a lot of debts over the legalization of marijuana, since the federal government hasn’t enforced it. Many people who are in favor of legalizing the use of it will argue that it can help stimulate the economy, and it’s less addictive than other substances like alcohol and crack cocaine. Still, people have arguments against legalizing marijuana which include it’s difficult to regulate it; the federal government isn’t enforcing it, so states are able to legalize it; and if the Fed was to legalize marijuana then the people who are already buying it for medicinal use daily or monthly would have to pay tax on it costing them more. The strongest of these argument against legalization would be that it would be difficult to regulate it because it’s easily accessible to where it can be grown in your own backyard. In addition if taxed too high it could potentially hurt the government because people would find other ways of getting marijuana, like the black market, to avoid the tax. I am in favor of legalizing marijuana because it could help to stimulate the economy, which is the strongest argument for it. In the article Milton Friedman: Legalize it!, it states that it would save about 7.7 billion in state and federal spending and it would create 6.2 billion in taxes. Some of this money that’s saved would be from prisons or jails that house inmates for the sale or production of marijuana, which would be no longer be needed. Milton Friedman is in favor of legalizing marijuana because the revenue generated by taxing marijuana would be more than what’s spent by the government to legalize its use and these revenues would reduce our deficit.
The strongest argument for marijuana legalization is that it would increase revenue a hundred fold because the increase in tax revenue, combined with the increase demand for pot, would create loads of new tax dollars for the government to use.
The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that marijuana in the long run will ruin lives, and since the legalization of marijuana will drive prices down, many more people will be apt to try it out and become addicted, hurting people's mental and physical health.
Milton Friedman believes in the legalization of pot, because in combination of savings and increased revenue the total possible savings could amount to approximately 13.9 billion dollars per year, along with an increase in investment as large corporations could expand their businesses by growing pot, increasing GDP in that regard as well.
I personally believe that pot should not be legalized, however a large portion of my belief stems from my religious and moral values, which dictate purity of thought and mind, and addiction to nothing other than God. While economically the legaliation of pot would be beneficial to the government as a result of the increased revenue and savings, I could not condone such an action because it would result in hundreds if not thousands of more ruined lives.
The strongest argument for marijuana legalization is that it would increase revenue a hundred fold because the increase in tax revenue, combined with the increase demand for pot, would create loads of new tax dollars for the government to use.
The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that marijuana in the long run will ruin lives, and since the legalization of marijuana will drive prices down, many more people will be apt to try it out and become addicted, hurting people's mental and physical health.
Milton Friedman believes in the legalization of pot, because in combination of savings and increased revenue the total possible savings could amount to approximately 13.9 billion dollars per year, along with an increase in investment as large corporations could expand their businesses by growing pot, increasing GDP in that regard as well.
I personally believe that pot should not be legalized, however a large portion of my belief stems from my religious and moral values, which dictate purity of thought and mind, and addiction to nothing other than God. While economically the legaliation of pot would be beneficial to the government as a result of the increased revenue and savings, I could not condone such an action because it would result in hundreds if not thousands of more ruined lives.
James A. - Period 7
James A. Responding to Ben C.
I disagree with you that marijuana should be legalized because some people can't even handle drugs that are already legalized. For example, many people are pulled over by law enforcement and charged with DUI. I believe that making marijuana legal would just be another drug that some idiots would abuse. I do agree with you that basically DARE was not effective and was and was a superfluous waste of time. Education on drugs should change so it would be more effective to kids to not use drugs like heroin and marijuana. If we continue to do programs like DARE, it may escalate the drug problem in our society. In conclusion, some of your points are valid and some points I disagree with.
Ryan R. responding to Nick H.
I may actually be turning a new leaf on the issue. I concur with Nick H. that for economic purposes, the legalization of marijuana is a good thing. The amount of revenue that will be generated because of legalization will outweigh the detriments of the drug. It will not only help the federal government, but it will also benefit state governments economically speaking. Through legalization, the United States can develop a society similar to that of some European or South American nations in regards to drug tolerance. For instance, Spain's drinking age is lower than that of the United States which entails for different cultural norms. Drinking alcohol in Spain is more of an everyday thing for the younger generation, whereas here, it is forbidden (though some do so anyways). If we adapt to societal norms similar to that of other countries and not sensationalize drugs and those who abuse them then we would not continue with this ongoing problem. Certainly we should wait a little more and engage in further debate upon the issue. We could also look at Uruguay, the first country to legalize marijuana, as an example to see how they're doing and make our best judgment then.
Emma B. responding to Kaitlyn I.
While I definitely agree with you that smoking marijuana is not a wise choice, I believe that the consequences of its legalization are more positive than negative. For instance, it cannot be denied that both federal and state governments would be saving as well as making a lot of money that could be used to benefit society in numerous ways if the prohibition of marijuana was ended. Also, the legalization of marijuana would also free many people from prison, which would also save federal and state governments money. I also believe that, even though marijuana would be much more accessible if it was legal, there would not be that many more people smoking it. I believe that most of the Americans who want to smoke marijuana are already smoking it. Although marijuana is a drug, people will use it even though it is not good for them. That is just how people are, so the government might as well benefit. Overall, no one really knows for sure whether or not the legalization of marijuana will benefit or harm the United States until it is actually legalized.
The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that it would be more cost-effective than not legalizing marijuana. According to Milton Friedman, legalization would save $7.7 billion from enforcement in terms of both state and federal spending. Taxation would also yield up to $6.2 billion year.
The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that productivity will go down, while medical costs increase because marijuana usage may skyrocket. Because legalizing marijuana will make it easier to access marijuana, more people will use it more frequently. This could lead to an increase in the occurrences of such diseases as lung cancer. With such diseases rampant, labor force productivity and efficiency may decrease.
Milton Friedman is a proponent for legalizing marijuana not just because it may be cost-effective in that it may save $7.7 billion, but also for moral reasons. He argues that marijuana should be legalized for medical purposes. He also does not think that one should be arrested for using marijuana and be labeled a criminal for the rest of their life. He also points out that we have failed to successfully enforce these laws anyway.
I am divided on where I stand with this issue, although I do lean a little toward prohibition of marijuana. I do not support drug usage, but at the same time, I can also see benefits in the legalization of marijuana. Legalization would obviously affect poor people more than rich people. These poor people may have higher rates of diseases attributed from the usage of marijuana. These same people would not be able to afford proper treatment and care. It would also further limit their ability to work, which would further put them at a risk for not being able to recover. Also, net dollar gain from legalization and taxation would only be 1% in the federal budget. However, the legalization of marijuana may put people off of using more dangerous drugs that have larger consequences. Death rate do to these more dangerous substances would decrease.
Greg C. responding to Ken H.
I disagree, mainly because the price of pot is already really cheap on the black market. It is in fact more expensive when sold in marijuana dispensaries, yet people are more willing to pay for it. It is also safer to buy from dispensaries because their wouldn't be a dealer getting mad at you for not buy some crystal meth or crack or whatever hard drugs have a high profit margin. Illegally an eighth can be purchased for like $40 give or take depending on the strain but in these dispensaries it was around $60. This shows that the marijuana is not becoming more affordable, and that people are willing to buy from the dispensaries thus increasing tax revenue for the state.
Also, one could say that since alcohol is legal why don't we all just make some vodka or moonshine. Just because one can doesn't mean they will. Same with buying a computer vs. building one. Most people buy a computer simply because it is easier and quality control is much better.
As for being a cash only business, these businesses will act similarly to pharmacies and will undoubtedly be monitored. Not only that but it's not like buying some weed on the street, most dispensaries will presumably have a credit card reader (it would be really funny if regular drug dealers had them too lol). Therefore they should legalize it but definitely control it.
Hoorann S. responding to Emma B.
I agree that if marijuana is to be legalized that it should be heavily monitored and controlled, especially if it for medical usage. We do not need doctors prescribing marijuana for simple things like in California. This would further encourage those who abuse marijuana to abuse it. They may feel justified because marijuana is easily accessible from doctors, who are supposed to be proponents of better health. The FDA should put heavy restrictions for commercial usage,as well. It is likely that, in order to make profit, companies may take advantage of loopholes in the law to advertise and sell marijuana products in unethical and unconventional ways.
Steven G.
1 - The strongest argument in favor of marijuana is the economic benefits that it will bring. Milton Friedman states that if pot was legalized, we would "save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending...while taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year".
2 - The main argument against marijuana is the health risks that are associated with it. These risks include lung disease, cancers, addiction, etc.
3 - Milton Friedman thinks marijuana should be legalized because it brings in incredible amount of tax revenue to Americans, will decrease arrests regarding small time drug usage, will decrease the amount tax payers need to pay law enforcement agencies, and it can bring medical advantages to hospitals and other clinics who use medical marijuana.
4 - I do not think marijuana should be legalized. This is because of the obvious health risks pot poses which will ultimately increase taxes to pay for the health of others. In addition, the legalization of pot means the legalization of THC which can be put into other products such as soda and food. If people weren't such frequent users, legalization may be legitimate. However, making it socially acceptable encourages an increase in usage which will ultimately make Americans more lazy, unhealthy, and stupid.
Marc F.
The strongest argument for legalizing pot would be that it would be an extraordinarily good new market to help the economy. In Colorado, a state that has legalized pot, the new market of legal marijuana has made the state billions of dollars. This clearly would be a great way of stabilizing a financially unsound state.
The strongest argument against marijuana is the ethical and moral argument. Everyone has been told their entire life that pot is a drug and it will ruin your life. So why would we want to legalize something that could potentially ruin people's lives? Many people cannot get past this ethical problem even with the knowledge that it would help our economy immensely.
Milton Friedman believes that pot should be legalized because of the profound effect it would have on our economy. In a study by Harvard University, an estimated 7.7 billion dollars would be saved in federal spending to prevent the use of marijuana and an estimated 6.2 billion dollars would be made on taxes from the sale of pot. This is why Milton Friedman, along with many other well known economists, believe that marijuana should be legalized.
I believe that marijuana should be legalized in the United States. The numbers on this matter tells the whole story. An estimated 7.7 billions dollars saved and an estimated 6.2 billion dollars earned from marijuana could mean the world to states that are in serious debt. So in this sense, the choice is clear to legalize marijuana. The difficult matter however is the moral issue. Many argue that pot, a highly abused drug in America, should by no means be made legal for everyone to be able to get a hold of easily. The truth however is that pot is not so much different than cigarettes. So if cigarettes are legal, why is pot not legal. One could even argue that by legalizing pot, it would become less attractive to young people because it wouldn't have the same excitement with doing it when legal as opposed to it being illegal.
Ben C responding to Rob B.
I disagree with you. I do believe that recreational pot smoking should be legal. Your "potential increases in medical costs" argument is a complete fallacy because the health effects from pot smoking, unless that smoker is an adolescent, is quite minor. In fact, some health benefits are associated with smoking pot:
1) The American Association of Cancer Research revealed that marijuana works to slow tumor growth in the lungs, breasts, and brain.
2) It treats seizures and migraines
3) It also helps against Glaucoma, Multiple Sclerosis, ADD, Alzheimer s,etc.
Some things listed here, are simple; yet, pot is an ailment against them. I still believe that people are so anti-pot and other non-addictive drugs because the image inside their head of what a stoner looks like. They see a lazy, unmotivated, and stupid guy who does nothing but sit in his room smoking pot and watching game shows. Oh, and they're also collecting welfare checks too! (Republicans hate that concept, so they hate pot smokers). People who become lazy and unmotivated due to pot were lazy and unmotivated people to begin with! Bill Gates, Bill Maher, Stephen King, Thomas Jefferson, Ted Turner, etc. All of these people smoked or were exposed to cannibus, yet they were successful.
"
"An acre of the best ground for hemp, is to be selected and sewn in hemp and be kept for a permanent hemp patch." - Thomas Jefferson's Garden book
Pot isn't the source of laziness... WE ARE. Because we are glued to cellphones and computers and iPods that do 1,001 things for us, we have become lazy. We want the easy way out. Pot can definitely reinforce this, don't get me wrong, but it isn't the problem. Society has gotten lazier over time, and of course instead of blaming ourselves,or the revenue building pocket machines (we are too attached to phones and other gizmos), or the fast food we love, or the things that seem to be making life easier for all of us, we blame some substance. It is the easy way out: scapegoating a drug so we can enjoy other terrible legal or illegal things.
There is no such thing as "drunk while high" with regard to pot. People educated on the drug realize the paranoia that is associated with it. Paranoid high people will not go out in a car and run over 10 people, they will be sitting on their couches eating some delicious Cheetos.
I do agree, however, that some people... And I mean SOME will abuse the drug. That's their problem. No one will encourage the idea of "high on the job" anyway. An addict will most likely get fired from his job. And, if pot smoking and addiction skyrocket with legalization, think about all the job openings that will occur!
I do believe that the occasional joint has value to it. I'm not a pot smoker myself, but it can definitely help some people. I don't care whether or not a friend of mine smokes pot or not. If he is a compulsive addict though, that's another story.
Arianna D responding to Eda A
I completely agree with your argument to legalize marijuana use. The reduction of criminals in jail as well as immense tax revenue would make the impact of marijuana legalization positive.
Rob B. responding to Ben C.
I specifically said that marijuana should be legal for medical purposes. You also suggest that it is a “fallacy” that medical costs would rise because of more people smoking weed. However, due to the fact that marijuana is illegal, very few studies have been done to support your theory. It is true, though, that marijuana smoke contains at least 50 carcinogens. Certainly a number of people have (and will) get cancer because of these chemicals.
Driving while high does actually exist. In Colorado during 2012 alone (before marijuana was legalized) there were over 1000 counts of DUIs in which marijuana was involved. Additionally, about 12.2% of all fatal crashes involved weed. Marijuana causes impaired reactionary abilities, which can lead to accidents.
You also talk in depth about how pot does not cause laziness, something that I do not bring up as a reason for not legalizing it. I would like to point out that you said both of the following:
-“I still believe that people are so anti-pot and other non-addictive drugs because the image inside their head of what a stoner looks like. They see a lazy, unmotivated, and stupid guy who does nothing but sit in his room smoking pot and watching game shows.”
-“People educated on the drug realize the paranoia that is associated with it. Paranoid high people will not go out in a car and run over 10 people, they will be sitting on their couches eating some delicious Cheetos.”
You tell me who’s being stereotypical.
Ben C. to Rob B.
Yes, I was mocking pot smokers and being stereotypical. This is the perception that people have of all pot smokers. That's why it is a stereotype. In the first point I make, that is a PERCEPTION. It's like thinking all Italians are dependent mama's boys, it's a stereotype. Not every pot smoker is like that, some are motivated to work as I listed in the preceding text. And how come driving while high is such a new thing? I have never heard of these kinds of problems from the late 1960's and late 1970's. They were more responsible and more mature teenagers at that time. You're argument is actually supporting mine... The fact that these fatalities happened (3X number of crashes is claimed) is because of an increasingly less responsible population of young people. Think about all the terrible texting while driving. Pot can reinforce bad decision making definately, but ultimately it is the user who is to blame for the fatalities. Smart people with drugs are fine, stupid people with anything is dangerous. And I guess this comes down to the argument of whether or not Americans have the sense to use marijuana sparingly. This is why, as I mentioned before, education needs to change. People need to realize that pot is different from the other drugs, and unfortunately if we lump it with the others, people will abuse it in the same way. There are certain steps we need to take before legalizing Rob, I get that. But, that doesn't mean the idea of legalizing it for recreational use should be demolished.
And P.S. Pot and alcohol is a dangerous combination and probably accounts for most of the accidents you claim happened.
Tom Q. to Ben C. and Rob B
Ben, you say "Pot can reinforce bad decision making definately, but ultimately it is the user who is to blame for the fatalities."
I want to start by saying *definitely. That's all I wanted to say about that quote...
Anyway, you say that "smart people with drugs are fine, but stupid people with anything is dangerous." You are basically claiming that drugs do not work on smart people, and I think we all know that is not true. It doesn't matter who is using drugs, they are always dangerous. Intelligence has nothing to do with it. While "stupid people" are much more inclined to smoke weed, they are still just as dangerous when behind the wheel of a car as any smart person would be. Drugs are bad, Ben.
Ben C to Tom Q
1) Thanks Tom for the grammar check.
2) By smart I mean informed and educated, not meaning high IQ or mental capacity. There are plenty of "smart" people in our school with high GPA's and SAT scores, but they're not informed on life smarts and decision making. And I know drugs are bad, Tom. Pot's effects are minimal, however, compared to that of heroin or cocaine. If we treat pot as a separate drug and people realize:"hey, it's ok for me to smoke it, and there's nothing wrong for me in doing so. But, I should make sure that I'm continuing my ambitions and making the right decisions.
Fix that sentence to: We should treat pot as a separate drug so people realize.
Tom Q to Ben C
Sure, the consequences for smoking weed are not nearly as bad as cocaine or heroin, but that doesn't put it in a separate category. Medical benefits aside, nothing positive comes from smoking weed. While I don't think legalizing pot is a huge deal, it is currently illegal for a reason. It has major potential to be dangerous.
Ken Pandaleon
Blog Questions
3/24/14
1. The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is the money to be made in taxation. It says in “Of bongs and bureaucrats” that banks feel they are at high risk opening credit lines to buyers of marijuana therefore it would be a cash oriented business. Despite the fact that a mainly cash product could avoid some taxation, some taxation is better than none. The government is currently loosing marijuana money to the black-market. Being taxable and increasing the total revenue of the economy are the strongest arguments for legalizing it. 19-32 million people use marijuana and to have that amount of product taxed could ultimately increase GDP and drive the market upwards.
2. The strongest argument against legalizing marijuana is medical costs will go up and workplace productivity could go down. Further research must be conducted but as of right now, pot users are portrayed as lazy and unproductive s the marijuana takes away their motivation to work.
3. Milton Friedman is for legalizing marijuana because of economic reasons. It could potentially save $7.7 billion in state and federal spending, as well as yield up to $6.2 billion a year through taxation.
4. I believe marijuana should be treated just as we treat the other two main drugs; tobacco and alcohol. There should be a legal age to consume and purchase, rules set for public consumption and also driving. As stated in the articles it is not as dangerous as alcohol, and the upsides in my opinion outweigh the downsides. Capturing the money lost in marijuana to the black markets can only benefit society and the economy as a whole, potentially save $7.7 billion in state and federal spending, as well as yield up to $6.2 billion a year through taxation. Besides the economic benefits, it can now be used as an effective pain medication in the medical field.
Gabriel G. Part 1
1. One argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that billions of dollars will be saved or earned (through taxes) by the government if the sale and consumption of marijuana were to be legalized. It is estimated by the linked Harvard study that legalization would save almost $8 billion due to less money allocated for drug enforcement, and over $6 billion of revenue will be created in the form of taxes. In addition to these benefits, it has been shown that increased marijuana consumption has led to a decrease in alcohol consumption and traffic fatalities. Considering that alcohol is far more dangerous than marijuana, and that a decrease in traffic fatalities is obviously a good thing, then this can only be seen as a benefit. The war on drugs itself has also led to thousands of unnecessary deaths and has ruined the lives of of many young adults, as pointed out by Milton Friedman. There is no reason for a drug with such a small negative social effect to cause such chaos.
2. Many have argued that legalizing marijuana will lead to an increase in marijuana consumption, and marked decrease in worker production. This would of course lead to direct, negative economic effects, harming the country overall. Opponents also argue that there are major health problems associated with marijuana consumption, including damage to long term memory. Finally, social justice advocates (such as those who voice their views in the freakonomics article) believe that the legalization of marijuana would largely damage non-white, poor households across America, and thus argue that the legalization of marijuana is not the proper way to deal with the issues posed by the drug.
Gabriel G. Part 2
3. Milton Friedman, famed libertarian economist and strong voice during the Reagan Administration, provides multiple arguments for the legalization of marijuana. He believes that there is no logical basis for continuing to prohibit marijuana use. He points out that even besides the money argument (which he points out hardly matters since any savings would immediately be used in budgetary matters), the societal implications that prohibiting marijuana usage brings are disturbing; he specifically points to young adults being arrested for using marijuana, as well as suffering patients being denied medical marijuana usage. He ultimately concludes that when compared to the harm and corruption created by anti marijuana laws, ""...the costs are one of the lesser evils.""
4. I, like Friedman, personally believe that all drugs should be legalized. When it comes to marijuana, especially, there are few good reasons to continue to keep it illegal. The monetary savings and benefits alone are substantial, especially on the level of states and local governments (Colorado, for example, is taxing marijuana sales at 25%, which is a substantial amount of revenue per sale). But even beyond that, marijuana should be legalized. First, the war on drugs is a complete failure; this has been observed by the World Drug Organization, in a study supported and confirmed by all countries except for, unsurprisingly, the US and Mexico. It destroys thousands of lives, and creates a massive black market industry that benefits the very same cartels the US aims to destroy. The legalization marijuana will, as with the legalization of alcohol after prohibition, remove a major source of profit for organized crime, which will damage them economically. This means less violence, fewer deaths, and less crime; none of these things occurs through the prohibition of marijuana. The supposed health effects opponents of legalization point to are often exaggerated or false (and though it would be incredibly naive to believe that no health effects occur due to marijuana, all are not as bad as alcohol).
Finally, I do not believe it to be the business of government to determine what one can do to their own person. What you do to your body is your business. If what you do causes harm to others, then the government should step in (and indeed and crimes caused by marijuana, including DUI, will and should continue to be prosecuted), but using a substance like marijuana should not itself be a crime. There is no reason for the government to be involved in your private affairs in such a massive way; you have a right to your body, and a right to ruin it if you so choose.
Rawann E
The strongest argument in favor of marijuana legalization is that it will be benefiting the economy. "Ending prohibition enforcement would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending, the report says, while taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year." This increase in revenue can help to jump start projects, and help to push the country forward. However not all people are on board with legalizing pot, because you never know how people are going to react to the legalization it might hurt more people than benefit others, it also might lead to higher crime according to freakonomics, "It seems likely, however, that a post-legalization world would also harm poor people more than rich people, and black people more than non-black people, albeit via different channels. In both cases, it is people raised in chaotic households, people who suffer from poor impulse control, and people who live in violent, high-poverty neighborhoods who will suffer the most."
Milton Friedman is on board with legalizing pot because the amount of tax revenues the country would get and savings the gov't would under go would help us seal our budget deficit. Friedman, also believes by legalizing pot there will be less crime, and chaos “Look at the factual consequences: The harm done and the corruption created by these laws…the costs are one of the lesser evils.”
I am not in favor of legalizing marijuana because we are unsure if people are going to react positively to this change,legalizing pot might led to big businesses making a profit while the lower class suffers. It might led to the country working less as a whole.Legalizing marijuana might led to monetary gains however it might led to higher deaths due to driving while high etc. and also might led to more socially issues rather than economic.
Rawann E
The strongest argument in favor of marijuana legalization is that it will be benefiting the economy. "Ending prohibition enforcement would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending, the report says, while taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year." This increase in revenue can help to jump start projects, and help to push the country forward. However not all people are on board with legalizing pot, because you never know how people are going to react to the legalization it might hurt more people than benefit others, it also might lead to higher crime according to freakonomics, "It seems likely, however, that a post-legalization world would also harm poor people more than rich people, and black people more than non-black people, albeit via different channels. In both cases, it is people raised in chaotic households, people who suffer from poor impulse control, and people who live in violent, high-poverty neighborhoods who will suffer the most."
Milton Friedman is on board with legalizing pot because the amount of tax revenues the country would get and savings the gov't would under go would help us seal our budget deficit. Friedman, also believes by legalizing pot there will be less crime, and chaos “Look at the factual consequences: The harm done and the corruption created by these laws…the costs are one of the lesser evils.”
I am not in favor of legalizing marijuana because we are unsure if people are going to react positively to this change,legalizing pot might led to big businesses making a profit while the lower class suffers. It might led to the country working less as a whole.Legalizing marijuana might led to monetary gains however it might led to higher deaths due to driving while high etc. and also might led to more socially issues rather than economic.
Rawann E
The strongest argument in favor of marijuana legalization is that it will be benefiting the economy. "Ending prohibition enforcement would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending, the report says, while taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year." This increase in revenue can help to jump start projects, and help to push the country forward. However not all people are on board with legalizing pot, because you never know how people are going to react to the legalization it might hurt more people than benefit others, it also might lead to higher crime according to freakonomics, "It seems likely, however, that a post-legalization world would also harm poor people more than rich people, and black people more than non-black people, albeit via different channels. In both cases, it is people raised in chaotic households, people who suffer from poor impulse control, and people who live in violent, high-poverty neighborhoods who will suffer the most."
Milton Friedman is on board with legalizing pot because the amount of tax revenues the country would get and savings the gov't would under go would help us seal our budget deficit. Friedman, also believes by legalizing pot there will be less crime, and chaos “Look at the factual consequences: The harm done and the corruption created by these laws…the costs are one of the lesser evils.”
I am not in favor of legalizing marijuana because we are unsure if people are going to react positively to this change,legalizing pot might led to big businesses making a profit while the lower class suffers. It might led to the country working less as a whole.Legalizing marijuana might led to monetary gains however it might led to higher deaths due to driving while high etc. and also might led to more socially issues rather than economic.
Rawann E
The strongest argument in favor of marijuana legalization is that it will be benefiting the economy. "Ending prohibition enforcement would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending, the report says, while taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year." This increase in revenue can help to jump start projects, and help to push the country forward. However not all people are on board with legalizing pot, because you never know how people are going to react to the legalization it might hurt more people than benefit others, it also might lead to higher crime according to freakonomics, "It seems likely, however, that a post-legalization world would also harm poor people more than rich people, and black people more than non-black people, albeit via different channels. In both cases, it is people raised in chaotic households, people who suffer from poor impulse control, and people who live in violent, high-poverty neighborhoods who will suffer the most."
Milton Friedman is on board with legalizing pot because the amount of tax revenues the country would get and savings the gov't would under go would help us seal our budget deficit. Friedman, also believes by legalizing pot there will be less crime, and chaos “Look at the factual consequences: The harm done and the corruption created by these laws…the costs are one of the lesser evils.”
I am not in favor of legalizing marijuana because we are unsure if people are going to react positively to this change,legalizing pot might led to big businesses making a profit while the lower class suffers. It might led to the country working less as a whole.Legalizing marijuana might led to monetary gains however it might led to higher deaths due to driving while high etc. and also might led to more socially issues rather than economic.
Lindsay S. Per 6
1) The strongest argument for legalizing marijuana is the fact that after it is legalized, it can be regulated and the state and federal government can collect taxes on it. With the popularity of marijuana (despite the legality, if legalized it will most likely become more popular. This could yield billions of dollars in taxes every year.
2) The strongest argument against legalizing marijuana is the effects it has on the human body. Marijuana eventually causes short term memory loss and many people become psychologically addicted.
3)Friedman believes marijuana should be legalized because of the potential tax revenue it could bring to the state. Aside from the financial gain, GDP and agricultural corporations can benefit highly from growing and distributing marijuana.
4) I feel that marijuana should be legalized because of the positive outcome seen in other countries. For example, in Amsterdam, it has been said that no one has a real issue with the drug because it is strictly regulated and citizens are more likely to use it responsibly. Also, current methods of distribution and growth of marijuana, many lives are at stake. This is because gangs and dealers control the flow of drugs throughout the country, not the state. If the government would regulate marijuana rather than ban it, consumers can still get their product, dealers and gangs would be put out of business, and the country would gain revenue.
Response to Allinson K:
I agree that marijuana is less harmful than alcohol and tobacco, but it is also one of the most harmless of recreational drugs. There have been no overdoses, as it is actually physically impossible to overdose on (approximately 46 pounds of marijuana within 10 minutes)If tobacco and alcohol are legal, regulated, and bringing revenue to the state, then marijuana can potentially clear out the problems that alcohol and tobacco causes because people will realize its not as harmful to the body and not nearly as destructive. Marijuana can be a better alternative to alcohol.
1) Although marijuana is not an addictive drug and has not been known to cause any deaths, the strongest argument supporting the legalization would be that the economy could benefit from it as a result of new taxes that can be placed on a newly regulated drug, and the fact that distributors would be able to grow and sell it resulting in more money in the economy.
2) The strongest argument against legalizing Mary Jane is that too little tests have been conducted to fully understand the dangers and long term risks of the use of this drug. It has been suspected in some cases to cause schizophrenia and undermine motivation in users.
3) Milton Freidman thinks that weed should be legalized because of the potential revenue gains from taxing the drug and being able to regulate it. He also believes it would save the time and money of legal forces who no longer have to prosicute it's users and sellers. It should not be denied for medical reasons any longer and should be given to those who experience a needed release of pain.
4) I believe that marijuana should be legalized. In Washington where it has already been introduced to the public as a legal drug, it has exceeded the profits estimated for the 4th quarter. Shops and distributors have set up store which have surely benefited the economy and provided new taxes to the government. More arguments to make are that it helps people with pain and anxiety. I read an article where it helped a girl who was suffering from 300 seizures a month to reduce the occurrences down to about 3 times a month. Compared to the legal drugs of tobacco and alcohol, it is not nearly as damaging or harmful to a society. If people are trusted to be able to use those dangerous drugs that could only be used for pleasure, why not this drug which has been proven to help people? Most economists agree in legalizing marijuana because the expected net profits are positive. My final point is that those who would use the newly legalized drug are people who have already been using it behind the government's back.
Brian J. p6
The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is state by Milton Friedman, who argues that by regulating the drug instead of enforcing the laws that prohibit it, federal and state governments will save $7.7 billion while earning $6.2 from tax revenue. A major issue with legalizing marijuana is that it is a harmful drug, if only somewhat, and businesses will do as much as possible to see their revenues go up. As mentioned before, Milton Friedman thinks that marijuana should be legalized because of the revenue that the government can obtain from taxing the drug. He also feels that being arrested for smoking pot or denying it for medical use is "disgraceful". I feel marijuana should be legalized based on it being a new source of tax revenue but also because of its economic benefits. However, I do agree with the point made the Freakonomics article citing the danger of legalizing marijuana. The US has never had to deal with a recreational drug that is "not that bad for you" and i agree that companies will tout this in order to expand their business. For this reason i think the US government must carefully regulate the marijuana industry to prevent it from getting out of hand if the drug were to be legalized nationally.
Ricki Levy P6
1)The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that it will save the United States $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending. In addition, with a 25 % tax rate, taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year. Despite the fact that marijuana is illegal federally, there are 19 million monthly marijuana users in this country. In conclusion, the legalization of marijuana can help the improve the state of the U.S. economy by taking the money out of the black market.
2) The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that it will hurt low income people, African Americans and other minorities more seriously, as stated by Reihan Salam. This poor impulse control of people who live in poverty stricken neighborhoods could lead to violence. In addition, while economic growth is important, it is difficult to ignore the social and physical costs it will have on individuals and society. Some immediate effects of taking marijuana include rapid heart beat, disorientation, lack of physical coordination and sleepiness, a lethal combination to a society dependent on driving cars to transport themselves. It is unsafe for pregnant women, and can have long term effects on the health of the baby.
3) Milton Friedman thinks marijuana should be legalized because after comparing the costs of marijuana prohibition with the cost of legalizing it and taxing its sale, the answer to him is clear. Legalizing marijuana would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending and would yield $6.2 billion a year from taxes. He believes that marijuana incarceration and the denial of marijuana for medical purposes is ridiculous and cruel. Medical marijuana has been proven to help people who suffer from headaches, Seizure disorders, Crohn's disease, cancer and glaucoma.
4) I am hesitant to defend the legalization of recreational marijuana, despite the potential economic benefits. Marijuana is currently the leading cause of substance dependence other than alcohol in the U.S. It can lead to drug-impaired driving health issues for pregnant women, and other social alterations. i agree with the author of the article, "Of bongs and bureaucrats" when he states that too little research has been done on the extent of the harm it can do, and more research needs to be conducted to verify its safety for the American people. However, I defend it's medicinal use, for it can help people suffering from headaches, cancer, Crohn's disease and seizure disorders. While I acknowledge what seems like the inevitable transition to a Country that legalizes marijuana due to the lack of enforcement by the Federal government, and Twenty states plus Washington, DC that legalize it for medicinal purposes, and an increasing number of states contemplating its legalization for recreational purposes, it is paramount that there are regulations in order to protect all people (specifically the youth and minorities) from drug abuse.
consumption tax
Ricki Levy P6
1)The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that it will save the United States $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending. In addition, with a 25 % tax rate, taxation would yield up to $6.2 billion a year. Despite the fact that marijuana is illegal federally, there are 19 million monthly marijuana users in this country. In conclusion, the legalization of marijuana can help the improve the state of the U.S. economy by taking the money out of the black market.
2) The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that it will hurt low income people, African Americans and other minorities more seriously, as stated by Reihan Salam. This poor impulse control of people who live in poverty stricken neighborhoods could lead to violence. In addition, while economic growth is important, it is difficult to ignore the social and physical costs it will have on individuals and society. Some immediate effects of taking marijuana include rapid heart beat, disorientation, lack of physical coordination and sleepiness, a lethal combination to a society dependent on driving cars to transport themselves. It is unsafe for pregnant women, and can have long term effects on the health of the baby.
3) Milton Friedman thinks marijuana should be legalized because after comparing the costs of marijuana prohibition with the cost of legalizing it and taxing its sale, the answer to him is clear. Legalizing marijuana would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending and would yield $6.2 billion a year from taxes. He believes that marijuana incarceration and the denial of marijuana for medical purposes is ridiculous and cruel. Medical marijuana has been proven to help people who suffer from headaches, Seizure disorders, Crohn's disease, cancer and glaucoma.
4) I am hesitant to defend the legalization of recreational marijuana, despite the potential economic benefits. Marijuana is currently the leading cause of substance dependence other than alcohol in the U.S. It can lead to drug-impaired driving health issues for pregnant women, and other social alterations. i agree with the author of the article, "Of bongs and bureaucrats" when he states that too little research has been done on the extent of the harm it can do, and more research needs to be conducted to verify its safety for the American people. However, I defend it's medicinal use, for it can help people suffering from headaches, cancer, Crohn's disease and seizure disorders. While I acknowledge what seems like the inevitable transition to a Country that legalizes marijuana due to the lack of enforcement by the Federal government, and Twenty states plus Washington, DC that legalize it for medicinal purposes, and an increasing number of states contemplating its legalization for recreational purposes, it is paramount that there are regulations in order to protect all people (specifically the youth and minorities) from drug abuse.
consumption tax
-Legalizing marijuana sounds like a good idea to some people because as long as people as people consume at the rate they’re expected to, there are not any social norms of America that smoking weed affects. The legalization was meant to increase revenue from tax, after a decrease in price and, therefore, increase in consumption, not to regress the society to that of the lethargic and carefree lifestyle stereotypically labeled to that of marijuana smokers.
-It’s socially unjust and looked down upon. Marijuana, being a drug, is technically not meant for public use, but for the use of those trying to escape and willing to use the black market to do so. Legalization seems to suggest that drugs are not bad as long as somebody’s making money off of it--in this case, our distorted government was willing to sacrifice what was morally right for something economically beneficial.
-Friedman believes that the net benefit to legalizing marijuana, surpasses the moral risk. We save money by decreasing incrimination, and we help the slack of the government in regards to stimulating the economy and spending money more appropriately. Friedman says that “Deficits are the only thing that keeps this Congress from spending more,” and with this justifies his argument that seems to suggest any money from anywhere that is given to the government is a good thing, it keeps them quiet because it keeps them happy.
-I’d have to say I understand the legalization of marijuana more than I am morally approving of it. Tobacco is taxed and alcohol is regulated, although their risks are fatal and common. Legalization just means that the government, again, wants in on consumer action, and expects us to be more mature than die from over excitement in the first night. I don’t believe any one sector of the population is more reliant on the sale of marijuana than any other since I’ve personally witnessed all ranges of income and race engage in the sell and usage of the drug. I think our entire government is moving liberally on all it’s issues because our president is too conflicted in how he wants to be judged to make thorough conclusions. His campaign is basically to give the people what they want, and right now, they want money, drugs, and cheaper health care (but also one that makes sense).
Keilah B in response to Christian R and Zack R
Legalization of marijuana seems to be beneficial because the effects the drug has on the body does seem to subordinate that of cigarettes and alcohol. Arrests are more common for a drug, not because it's harmful, but because it's been labeled a "drug". To allow 48% of prisons to be filled with so-called drug-infused criminals is ridiculous, because marijuana never really hurt anybody.
Separate Conclusion
The government should refocus onto placing more pressure on under aged drinking. Drunk driving, late-night partying, and over consumption are all serious problems that are fatal yet disregarded. Drug dealers are just trying to make money, whereas the adults offering alcohol access to immature and under aged teenagers allow lives to be a risks for the sake of a "good time".
Kevin H
1) I believe that the strongest argument in favor of the legalization of marijuana is that it is less harmful than alcohol and tabacco. The fact that it does less damage to the human body than the other two yet the other two are legal just doesn't make any sense to me. If marijuana was legal and could act as a replacement for the other two, it would save thousands of lives. The best part about marijuana compared to the other two is that it doesn't have any addicting chemicals in it.
2)Honestly, I cant find a single reason to not legalize marijuana. The only reason that I could see is that it would increase the usage rate. I do not think that this is a valid reason however because, as it will increase the usage rate, it will lower the usage rate of alcohol and tabacco consumption which is a very good thing. There are people that are going to do harmful things no matter what the government does however, legalizing marijuana will steer them away from the harmful effects of alcoholism and bring them towards the harless marijuana side.
3)Milton Friedman believes that it should be legalized because of the revenue it will generate for the nation. Not only will it bring in tax money but it will also allow the government to cut spending on trying to continue this mini war on marijuana. The fact that the nation is in so much debt yet they are unwilling to legalize something that will generate around $16 billion just shows how uptight politicians and the general public can be.
4) I strongly believe that marijuana should be legalized. I do not see a single valid reason why it shouldn't be. There are so many benefits to legalizing it and no negatives. The revenue that all of the selling will do will raise a lot of money for the government and it is just the moral thing to do. If alcohol and tabacco can be legal then why cant marijuana. Also, marijuana is not a drug. A drug is something that you have to chemically alter in order to produce the desired effect. Marijuana is just a plant that if you just so happen to burn, there are some side effects. Also, you can not overdose on marijuana. There has not been a single confirmed death due to an overdose on marijuana. Maybe there are some people that have died due to doing stupid things while under the effects but how is that any different than the tens of thousands of people that die every year while drunk. There is no valid reason not to legalize marijuana.
Mike K. responding to Zack R.
Legalizing marijuana may remove some criminals from the street, but there is no way to completely regulate it if it is legalized. There would still be the issue of selling weed to minors. A black market could emerge of people buy weed and reselling it to people not old enough to buy it at a higher price. Also, as stated in the Freakonomics article, there could be unpredictable effects on the poor and black population. There are many risks that accompany legalization and regulation that we can't predict. If the price of canabis is set too high, we may still see illegal trade. If too many people who wouldn't have used it before it was legal, start smoking pot, we may see increases driving while high. Drug dealers may look for different, more dangerous drugs to sell if they can't make revenue from marijuana. The government may save some money with the legalization of pot and the prison population may decrease, but there is no telling what kind of effects legalization could have on our society.
Matt M.
Personally, I am in favor of the legalization of pot. Even though I still wouldn't use it, legal pot could have many benefits for the country, but it could also have just as many consequences.
A.) Together, the arguments in both the first and the second links provide the best evidence of why pot should be legalized. Even though the first link (Freakonomics) is about why pot wouldn't have an impact on the economy, it does provide the fact that marijuana does not have a strong impact on people, at least not as much as cocaine. Along with the idea that legal pot could produce around $7.7 billion (Friedman) and it wouldn't affect people all that much, there are not too many negatives that have too much of an impact to give legal pot a good image. either way, the idea that the legalization of pot will have a sizable impact on the economy is certainly the main idea of why this drug would be allowed.
B.) On the other hand, the third article (the Economist)argues that pot, if not correctly regulated and taxed, can many consequential events, such as a flourish for the Black Market, as well as a total backfire for the whole "Legalize pot" movement. It is incredibly easy to make a serious mistake on the regulations and/or the taxes, so this legalization could become very risky right off the bat. All in all, this whole thing is up in the air, and I really don't plan on being effected in any sort of way.
C.)Milton Friedman believes that pot should be legalized because of the economic impact that it could have around the country. As I previously stated, this drug would make up for $7.7 billion in state spending, which could be put toward the improvement of a stae's infrastructure. Also, the allowance of pot could help different agricultural companies, such as ConAgra Foods because those companies could be potential growers for the pot.
D.) I am in favor for the legalization of pot, but I believe that it should be given to people slowly at first in order to see what effects the pot would have. If nothing substantial happens, then the amount sold could increase, if something does arise then it could just stop being sold. This idea is supported by Milton Friedman, and my main argument is certainly that the selling of pot could make a substantial amount of money for the entire country. Also, with pot being much easier to obtain, drug dealers and criminal gangs that are used to fighting over the drug would have no reason for existence and would hopefully be wiped out of sight, making the country a better place.
Matt M. responding to Rob Bug
In my opinion, the direct reason why pot should be legal is the fact that the people want it. Recently, a poll was taken and it stated that roughly 58% of the country is in favor of legalizing the drug. I agree with your idea that pot is marijuana is less dangerous than drugs such as alcohol, and it is even safe enough that it has never been directly linked to a single American death.
I disagree with your decision to keep it illegal for recreational use because eventhough it would be used much more constantly than it is today, that doesn't mean that every single person in the country would smoke it. In fact, even if people did get arrested for doing things under the influence of marijuana, wouldn't that generate more revenue for the police force that is arresting the smoker? If marijuana did become legal across the country, I firmly believe that it would make up for most medical costs, and maybe even provide a profit in some cases.
Nick H. responding to Steven G.
In my opinion it is more beneficial to legalize marijuana. I don't exactly agree with everything that has been stated because it hasn't been proven that marijuana kills brain cells or makes people stupid. The only thing that has been proven has been some lung damage which will certainly be covered by the taxes that will be received if marijuana was legal. In addition, just because they legalize marijuana doesn't mean that THC will be put into other food or drinks because the FDA will still oversee everything going on within the food industry to make sure that it's safe. Also, just because marijuana becomes legal doesn't mean that people will become addicted to it. Frequent users will have to pay more money for it and this may even cause certain people to quit using it because they can't afford it. Marijuana hasn't exactly been proven addictive therefore marijuana should be made legal and it will help out economy tremendously.
Explain the strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana?
The strongest argument in favor of legalizing marijuana is that it will lower the costs that have to do with enforcing its prohibition. With lower crime rates and less people getting arrested or fined for using marijuana, spending on enforcing its prohibition will decrease. In addition, as proven in Colorado, only a few people “overdosed” on marijuana when it became legal, so other than raising taxes and providing more money for the government while making ‘potheads’ pay more for their goods, the legalization of marijuana will most probably just allow users of marijuana to enjoy their drugs legally, while recruiting some friends along with them.
Explain the strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana?
The strongest argument against the legalization of marijuana is that since the legalization will be brand new, and so far it is only legal in some states and not at the federal level, it is hard to decide how to tax the good. Because of its harmful effects on health (similar to alcohol and cigarettes), the government can only base their choices of taxation on those two examples. However, the underground economy, cash only transactions, may prove to defeat the purpose of legalizing marijuana because the government will have no way to track the transactions and therefore, will not raise revenue from the legalization.
Why does Milton Friedman think marijuana should be legalized?
Milton Friedman thinks that marijuana should be legalized for several reasons. First, he thinks that there is no logical reason as to why marijuana is illegal. He thinks that saving $7.7 billion by no longer enforcing prohibition is not the most important factor. He feels that we are ignorant of the fact that deaths in Colombia occur because of the growth and distribution of marijuana there for Americans. He thinks that marijuana is useful in the medical field, and it is ridiculous to be arresting a young adult for smoking pot when there are more severe crimes that exist. He thinks that the cost of the legalization of marijuana is one of the least important factors because of the amount of harm and corruption that exists because of the fact that marijuana is illegal.
Where do you stand on the issue? Defend your position and be sure to include relevant arguments cited within the articles. You may also provide additional arguments that are not discussed in the included links.
Personally, I am indifferent on the matter of legalizing marijuana, however economically speaking, I would say that legalizing marijuana would, in the long run, benefit our economy through taxation. As long as the government is able to strictly enforce the taxation and can find a foolproof way of making sure that the underground economy for marijuana does not affect its ability to collect taxes on the product, I believe that the legalization would be beneficial to us eventually.
Ricki L. in response to Zack R.
While it is stated that alcohol is more destructive than marijuana according to many sources, the lack of research conducted on the adverse effects of marijuana could be disastrous. However, according the the Bureau of Justice Statistics, 75.7% of inmates in prison use marijuana. Instead of experimenting on the American Public, it is essential for the U.S. government to focus on dealing with the issues with alcoholism in this country. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, one in every 12 adults suffer from alcohol abuse. Also, the negative effects cigarette smoking has had on health and the damage it's had on the environment is something that I would fear would be emulated with the legalization of marijuana.
Matt B. responding to Rob B.
While you say that there would be a need to crack down on driving while high, isn't that already done? Police already look for drunk or impaired drivers while out on the road, and I fail to see how the legalization of marijuana would cause a huge increase in the cost to law enforcement in addition to what currently exists. I'm thinking that your claim relies on the idea that marijuana users will be out driving in the same numbers as alcohol users, but I don't think that would be the case at all because of the effects marijuana has on the body. Two of effects marijuana has on a user are a distorted sense of time and extreme paranoia, which I think will be a deterrent to prevent the majority of users from driving while high. While marijuana doesn't always have the same effects from person to person, I think the effects would prevent a large portion of users from being capable of even desiring to get up and drive somewhere.
to Kenneth H
If the economic reasons are not enough to legalize it then what is? If this drug is already being used by millions of citizens and will continue to whether it is legalized or not, who would it be harming? It is physically near impossible to overdose on this non-addictive drug, and therefore isn’t actually causing physical harm to anyone. Wouldn’t making it more accessible and affordable to those who find medical benefits from it be the point of legalizing marijuana? Having a required license for distributors is not a bad idea though. My final point is that although we can’t foresee the exact results of legalization in our state, we can make predictions similar to the changes in Washington and Colorado.
Matt A. responding to Christian S.
I agree with you on the idea that legalizing marijuana would benefit the United States and its people. Legalizing marijuana would profit the government by the included tax to the product. Many people are interested in marijuana and their consumption of it would only benefit the economy of the United States. The federal deficit would be cut in an effective way due to an increased consumption of marijuana. I also agree with you on the idea that legalization would lower crime rates because it would no longer be necessary for drug dealers to set up meetings with potential clients, thus they would no longer be in risk of being arrested. I completely agree with your stand on legalizing marijuana.
Tom H responding to Taylor M
I agree with you that the legalization of Marijuana would make it safer for public consumption and would have a quick increase in revenue for the federal government. However, I believe that this would be a short lived increase. Employers are already proven to be less likely to hire alcoholics or smokers. If marijuana were legalized, those who use it would most likely also be discriminated against and would have a higher unemployment rate than the rest of the population. With employers hiring less of these people the government will have to pay more in benefits and take less in taxes. If they are affected by demotivization then even if they are hired they will be working at less than their potential which will also hurt businesses and the economy over all. Finally, the only reason why alcohol and tobacco companies are still legal in the US is due to their bases of support from addicts and lobbyists. The government could never get rid of tobacco companies because of the power they have in the government and the amount of revenue they bring in using taxes. Alcohol can never be removed either because it's already too deeply rooted in our society. So if we legalize marijuana, there would be no turning back if it turned out to be the wrong decision because users would never allow it.
Josie Dribbon replying to Zack Renner
I agree with you Zack. That was pretty much exactly what I said. In regards to your last sentence, according to a Forbes article, in Colorado, "voters approved a law last year that requires the first $40 million collected from the special excise taxes to be directed towards school construction." In just one month, they gained $2 million in taxes related to the sale of recreational marijuana. Increased funding for education is always a positive. My family has a piece of property in a small town of Colorado, and that town will probably benefit from the legalization of marijuana. Their school system and emergency medical services could definitely use more funding. The schools are not very good and when someone gets hurt, it can take up to half an hour for the ambulance to arrive. Hopefully they will generate some revenue.
Laurel B responding to Caroline G
I agree with you that marijuana should be legalized but also monitored and kept in check. I think it is a great idea that sellers of marijuana would have to be licensed and all products strictly labeled in the best efforts to keep people safe. Also, whether it is legalized or not, the 25 million people who annually use marijuana are going to continue to use it. I also agree that it would make a tremendous step in getting rid of the black market which is ultimately positive to society and the economy.
Responding to Ricki L.
Despite my original response, I do strongly agree with the point you made about the danger of drug-impaired driving. Since marijuana has adverse effects on the body, including the brain, I cannot help but wonder what extent automobile accidents/deaths will increase by. Cognitive and motor impulses are proven to be impaired with even a little THC (dominant chemical in marijuana) in a person's system. (According to the National Highway Safety Administration). Even though substances such as alcohol are socially acceptable at parties, dinner tables, etc. for people over the age of 21, once you take over the wheel, you are risking your life as well as the lives of people around you. I can see this becoming a major problem if the legalization of marijuana does occur in this country.
Caroline G to Kathleen H.
I think you bring up a good point that I didn't think about. The fact that 32 million Americans used marijuana last year shows that even though it is illegal, it is still easily attainable. I also don't think legalizing it will create a large increase in its market. However, I do think that legalizing it will allow the government to regulate its use and sale which should, hopefully, diminish the black market. I do think that the 7.7 billion dollars being saved is a large plus in legalizing marijuana. I overall agree that continuing to ban it does not seem very logical anymore.
Steven G responding to Nick H
Considering your argument that there is no scientific proof that Marijuana damages brain cells, I thought you should have a lesson in how marijuana affects neurons. Marijuana impinges on the central nervous system by attaching to neurons and interfering with normal communication between the neurons,. Cannabinoids in the active ingredient of marijuana. The most psychoactive cannabinoids in marijuana is THC (tetrahydorcannabinol) which when inhaled or digested can mimic or block actions of neurotransmitters and interfere with normal functions. These cannabinoid receptors have an effect on several mental and physical activities including short term memory, coordination, learning and problem solving. Cannabinoid receptors are activated by neurotransmitters called anandamide. Anandamide belongs to a group of chemicals called cannabinoids. THC is also a cannabinoid chemical. THC mimics the actions of anandamide, meaning that THC binds with cannabinoid receptors and activates, neurons, which causes adverse effects on the mind and body. High concentration of cannabinoid receptors exist in the hippocampus, cerebellum and basal ganglia. The hippocampus is important for short tem memory. When the THC binds with the cannabinoid receptors inside the hippocampus, it interferes with the recollection of recent events. THC also affects coordination which is controlled by the cerebellum. The basal ganglia control the regulation of muscle movements which is another reason why motor coordination is impaired under the influence of marijuana.
In addition, in states that legalize marijuana, they also sell food and beverage products that contain THC such as cooking oil, soda and candy bars. Because marijuana is illegal federally, the FDA does not regulate the THC in these products.
In terms of addiction, although pot may not be physically addicting, it is mentally addictive. According to Patrick Kennedy, the majority of people who seek drug rehabilitation, are users of marijuana.
You are correct that legalizing marijuana would provide economic benefits. You are taking away business from petty drug dealers and giving it to Wall street executives who will exploit the people who are addicted to it as much as the low class drug dealers. Since the federal government has no intention of regulating the legality of market of pot, these men will abuse it to gain the most profit for themselves, consequently hurting the public. Just like tobacco was thought to be harmless, it was eventually proven to cause major health problems costing the tax payers millions to provide care for.
Grace Z in response to Arianna D
I agree with your support of legalizing marijuana and with introducing legalization slowly. I believe that economic and even social and health benefits will outweigh their costs, but there is no knowing exactly what the consequences will be. We should watch how legalization affects Colorado, and states should be able to make the decision for now. However, I believe that medical marijuana should be legalized immediately by the federal government.
John F to Matt A
You say that marijuana should be legalized because it would help people who smoke it. I believe that if its illegal and bad for your health it should not be used. Its negatively affecting their record because it is a bad drug and is illegal, so they should not being do it. Having it on their is a consequence they would have to face if they smoke and get caught. For example, if someone is drunk in public they can be arrested for public intoxication and will have to deal with their consequences because its illegal. I do not believe that is a foolish reason that they could not get jobs because a manger would not want someone who lacks motivation, which can be a side affect from smoking pot. Also, you say how the law being illegal is ruining peoples lives. If it is ruining peoples lives why would they do it in the first place. One must also think of the side affects of smoking marijuana. Would it be alright if parents are smoking weed in the house of young children, which can potential lead the children to getting high from a smoked out house. I believe that this would hurt american culture in the long run.
Responding to Emma B.
I agree with you that it definitely seems logical to legalize marijuana when you look at it from an economic perspective. However, I think that legalizing marijuana for recreational purposes would eventually cause the economy to lose money due to an increase in unemployment that would result, since an increase in the number of marijuana users would decrease their motivation to work. The number of people using it will go up because the price of it will decrease and it will be easier to get when it's legal. Marijuana may not be very addictive, but a risk is that it is a gateway drug and could lead many people into using drugs that are more addictive and harmful. However, although I think that it shouldn't be legal for recreational use, I think that its legalization for medical purposes would be okay, because it would be for a good reason.
Brian I responding to Jimbo Allen
Jimmy, while one can understand your angst at allowing for the general public to have access to another substance that can potentially cause cancer, dependency, and perhaps other negative things, your implied idea that legalizing marajuana will prevent the general public from using it seems to be a bit far fetched.
Think of prohibition; the federal government made the sale, consumption, and production of alcohol illegal, but this did little to curb the public’s use of alcohol. All it really did was help to support the rise of organized crime and place a heavy burden on law enforcement to both enforce these laws and try to limit the influence and power of people like Al Capone.
While I haven't any plans to use marajuana, I fully support efforts to legalize it. It seems almost irresponsible that the nation would not only spend obscene amounts of money to fight the “war on drugs”, but also afford lengthy prison sentences to non-violent, non-dangerous offenders. Wouldn’t a responsible state regulate the supply of a dangerous substance that has a rather casual, accepted place in our culture? Wouldn't regulation help to limit crime associated with said substance and also ensure the marajuana its citizens use is of a high quality?
Adem A responding to Marc F
Yes Mark I also believe that legalizing would be the smartest thing to do as well. It creates this revenue of 7.7 billion dollars per year. It also creates a 6.2 billion dollar sin tax to create more revenue into the US economy! Thats a combined effort of almost 14 billion dollars extra per year! It's amazing to know that it could help take down our budget deficit slowly at the time. Yes it is the most used drug in the United States but also it could create the most revenue. People smoke cigarettes so why would we not be able to smoke pot when we would want too. It's proven to help medically and would even lower our crime rate in the country and cause less strain on the federal government to put away drug dealers selling pot. It creates less money so we can use it other ways such as lowering our deficit or using it for domestic purposes. If it would lower our crime rate why wouldn't we legalize it to stop the violence?
Eda A. responding to Grace Z.
I agree with your support of the legalization of marijuana. Your argument that tobacco and alcohol may have more adverse effects than marijuana, and if alcohol consumption were decreased due to increased marijuana consumption, there would be a decrease in traffic fatalities is very interesting and certainly a strong argument to consider when debating legislation regarding marijuana legalization. I also support your argument that legalizing marijuana would enable the 19 to 32 million people who use marijuana to be freed of being labeled as criminals, which would be a positive social change for our society and would reduce the burden on our judicial system.
Bryan Wehner responding to James Allen:
While it can certainly be conceded that drugs such as marijuana can cause great harm, what right does the government have to keep us from making decisions affecting only ourselves? It is also undeniably harmful to drink sugary sodas, should we ban soda as well? Additionally, the practical benefits of legalizing marijuana make its legalization worthy of political expedience. Legalizing marijuana could help to close budgetary gaps faced by many different states right now and could free up police resources to respond to more pressing crimes more effectively.
Gabriel G. responding to James Allen:
While I understand the medical concerns and threats of DUI, I believe that these threats are exaggerated. First, DUI would of course remain illegal, and a test for THC could easily be created, if one does not already exist, to be used in the same way roadside alcohol tests are done. Second, marijuana is less dangerous than alcohol, and many of its negative effects are equaled in tobacco. Unless you feel the need to ban both of those, banning marijuana because of such concerns is illogical.
Ultimately, one has to decide whether or not it is right for the government to be so intrusive into their lives as to be able to control what one puts into their body. Yes, the economic and fiscal gains that could come from a strong marijuana sector is something to consider, but this is ultimately about the right to one's body. The government should not be in the business of deciding what I, or you, or anyone can do to themselves.
Samara N.
1. Legalization will allow marijuana to be safer and cheaper as a result of regulation. It would carry labels showing its tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content so that consumers know what they are smoking. We have seen this be successful in places like Colorado.
2. Marijuana can be a hindrance to one's health. Even though little research has been done on the effects of smoking marijuana, some doctors believe it can increase the risk of schizophrenia and undermine motivation.
3. Milton Friedman believes that legalizing marijuana would save $7.7 billion in state and federal spending, and taxation would yield $6.2 billion each year. He also finds it "disgraceful" to arrest youths for marijuana use and even more "disgraceful" to deny the use of marijuana for medicinal uses.
4. I support the legalization of marijuana because of the increased safety benefits of regulation. The fear of laced drugs would be mostly eradicated and dealers fighting for territory would be a thing of the past.
Samara N. responding to Allison K.
I agree with your standpoint on legalization. I find your argument that marijuana is less harmful than alcohol or tobacco to be intriguing because I had always been under the impression that the opposite was true. I also think that the point you make about increased revenue is one that should be strongly considered by the government because of the country's immense debt.
John P.
I believe the strongest argument in favor of marijuana legalization is that it could generate a very large income for states in terms of taxing, as was demonstrated in Colorado when "licensed dispensaries generated a total of more than $14 million, putting about $2 million of tax revenue into state coffers in the process."
I believe the strongest argument against marijuana legalization comes from its psychological side effects, both short-term and long-term. Use of marijuana has been linked to short-term hallucinations and paranoia, but it has also been correlated to onsets of schizophrenia.
Friedman is in support of legalization because he estimates the United States will generate an additional $13.9 billion per year, as well as a "sin tax" of ~$6.2 billion. It would also save $7.7 billion on federal and state spending.
I completely support the legalization of marijuana for several reasons. I believe that it would be economically beneficial, as it would generate an estimated $6.2 billion in tax dollars. It would also allow law enforcers to focus on more serious crimes than marijuana use, as it is estimated that in the United States, a marijuana arrest is made once every 42 seconds. It would also ease and potentially avoid overcrowding situations in prisons, as it is also estimated that one in every eight US drug prisoners, which make up about 48% of prisons, are there on marijuana offenses. I also believe it should be legalized because of its medical purposes, which have proven to be beneficial to those who have used it in that sense. While I do believe it should be heavily monitored, as there are mental health concerns regarding marijuana use, I believe its legalization has much to offer the United States, economically and otherwise.
Ken P responding to Tom H
You raised a good point saying that the legalization of marijuana will only have a short lived increase, yet I believe the effects will be much longer. Colorado has become America's "guinea pig" in the sense that all the other states are watching carefully to see how legalization will play out and so far it seems to be working for Colorado.With state taxes at 35 percent and the ability for cities to add their own sales tax, the legalization and taxation of marijuana in Colorado will bring in about $70 million in revenue this year, according to the Colorado Department of Revenue-division of taxation. The first $40 million in income will be spent on education and schools, while the remaining will be spent on marijuana regulation. I believe that once other states see the amount of income generated from this taxation, they won't be able to pass up the opportunity. With this amount of revenue being generated in only the first year, in only one state, how can we say it will be short lived? With proper regulations, mirroring alcohol and tobacco law, legalizing marijuana can turn out to be a major success, economically speaking.
Christian R responding to Rob B.
Rob, you make some very good points in your analysis although I do not agree with all of them. You state that you don't believe the tax revenue will offset costs of new enforcement for "driving while high." However when using Colorado as an indicator it can be seen that they are reaching tax profit goals months in advance and there is an estimated 6.6 billion dollars on the table as what can now be called the low field if the entire country were to legalize this substance. Although there may be some necessary increases in law enforcement they are already trained for enforcement of anti-marijuana laws. It would merely be a transition from prevention to regulation. Sobriety checkpoints could serve to catch both alcohol and marijuana users violating the laws. I also realize that not all "pot heads" follow the stereotypes and sit in their homes eating Cheetos. They may endanger other citizens but such is the fact of life. Alcohol is responsible for 88,0000 deaths per year from alcohol poisoning and poor alcohol-related lifestyle choices and another 10,000 from drunk driving. People have the choice on whether or not to use alcohol or marijuana and the although they can cause bodily harm the government can tax accordingly to discourage its use (much like cigarettes). Legalization would open a new form of income and make a social statement. Go 'murica!
John P replying to Kenneth Helbock
I don't think it would be a mostly cash business if it is implemented correctly. Gas stations accept credit cards for cigarettes and alcohol, I don't see why marijuana would be any different. Also, there would be an increase in the number of available jobs, as there would be a demand for marijuana growers and sellers, who would need to be licensed. This would probably lead to them having purer, more regulated (and therefore, probably safer) marijuana than people who would decide to grow it themselves. While people do tend to pick the cheapest seller, I believe this is because it is currently illegal, and therefore it's fairly unlikely you would be able to verify the quality of the drug in the first place, whereas with a licensed seller, there is a very high chance it is of better quality than some guy growing hemp in his closet, so more people would choose the licensed seller. I also don't see the government allowing kids to buy marijuana anytime soon, so I don't think it would be accessible to everyone. As with alcohol and cigarettes, they would put an age requirement for buying marijuana.
Emma B. responding to Kaitlyn I.
I do not approve of the recreational use of marijuana either. However, I think that legalizing it would not harm society that much. For instance, if the legalization of marijuana did cause many people to be fired because the use of the drug was affecting their job performance, then I think that other people who are looking for jobs would just take their place. As a result, the unemployment rate wouldn't decrease drastically unless, of course, the economy was at full employment and there was nobody to take the jobs of the marijuana smokers.
Overall, I think that the money that can be made justifies the legalization of marijuana. Alcohol and cigarettes are addictive and cause many deaths, yet they are legal. Why should marijuana still be illegal when it costs so much money to prohibit it and studies have shown that it is not as bad as alcohol and cigarettes? People will smoke marijuana whether or not it is legal, so the United States might as well benefit by being able to tax it and use that money to help society instead of putting people in jail.
Smithtown West SADD aka Cristiana Dias in reply to Megan Courtney
I agree with Megan in the fact that the strongest argument in favor of marijuana is it’s economic benefit. By legalizing marijuana, businesses and the government could make a lot of revenue up to $6.2 billion by taxing every step of the marijuana selling process from growing, selling, to consuming. All the steps and people involved in the process who could be charged for licenses and production could help bring down the national debt by creating jobs in factories, bringing down crime rates, and increase revenue through taxation.
Kenneth H. to James A.
I think your argument against marijuana legalization is very good and effective and I agree with your points. It is definitely true that people are already irresponsible with the drugs that are legal now and it makes no sense that the government would place more responsibility in the hands of the public with more dangerous drugs like marijuana. Also it is a health concern because not a lot of research has been done on it, but did say that research states that marijuana usage can cause rapid heart beat, weakening of the immune system and gives you a sensation of being high. Marijuana doesn’t just affect the user but can effect people around them because it slows decision making and will effect workplace productivity. Also the chances of medical costs going up is possible because of the risk and the uncertainty of the full consequences of smoking marijuana. Overall, marijuana should not be legalized in the United States because of the little knowledge we have about it and the fact that drugs do no good to anyone.
Marc F. reply to Grace Z.
I completely agree with your stance on the legalization of marijuana and your reasoning as well. Legalizing marijuana would decriminalize billions of Americans. This could directly lead to a decrease in serious crimes due to the larger task for of police force geared towards stopping serious drug use and trafficking such as cocaine or heroine. I also agree with the idea that marijuana has been shown to have no more, or even less, negative effects on people than do cigarettes or alcohol. These drugs are legal and make money for the U.S. so marijuana should be legal as well.
Julianna H. responding to Matt B.
I agree with you that marijuana is no more dangerous to society than alcohol. It is true that no deaths have been credited to the use of marijuana. It may even be less detrimental to one's health than either alcohol or tobacco. For this reason I believe it should be treated the same way these other drugs are treated on the market. Marijuana should be regulated and taxed like alcohol and tobacco. If the government cannot stop people from buying and using marijuana, then the U.S. should at least make it legal and safe to use it in order to bring down crime rate.
Christian F. to James "Jimmy James Jimbo" A.
I can agree with many of your points, but not all. I can agree that the costs of law enforcement will go down invariably. I do not, however, agree with your point of marijuana being a "danger to society." The truth is, if you want to keep marijuana banned for the reasons you have stated, then alcohol has to be banned too. Slowing growth/damage of the fetus, increase in automobile accidents, feeling of euphoria, they are not too entirely different at all. And this should be noted. Marijuana is a non addictive drug with the only true lasting effect being from inhaling smoke. It is not a menace to society, and should not be treated as such. Thank you.
Christian F. to James "Jimmy James Jimbo" A.
I can agree with many of your points, but not all. I can agree that the costs of law enforcement will go down invariably. I do not, however, agree with your point of marijuana being a "danger to society." The truth is, if you want to keep marijuana banned for the reasons you have stated, then alcohol has to be banned too. Slowing growth/damage of the fetus, increase in automobile accidents, feeling of euphoria, they are not too entirely different at all. And this should be noted. Marijuana is a non addictive drug with the only true lasting effect being from inhaling smoke. It is not a menace to society, and should not be treated as such. Thank you.
Bob to Ryan R.
Although you may be right that it will be a slippery slope, don't you believe that the US government needs some sort of income? Also we are not the first country to legalize some sort of drugs for recreational use, therefore we would have a basis to go off of. Although it isn't the ideal road to take, it is a safe one, therefore your opinion is irrelevant.
Ryan E. responding to John V.
Although there may be concerns about the negative health effects of marijuana, I don’t believe these side effects are serious enough for the United States government to reject billions of dollars in revenue. The Short Term effects of marijuana seem to be minimal, including a lack of motivation and possible increases in psychological disorders. If the government was concerned about the possibility of raise in these fairly insignificant health concerns, they would more seriously considering banning alcohol or tobacco, both of which are proven to have more serious health effects. Most people who want to smoke marijuana are already doing so illegally, so I disagree with the idea that legalization would further degrade school districts. Having government regulation in the marijuana market would also reduce violence caused by the drug and possibly help lower income communities who may be affected by gang violence surrounding the drug.
Megan C responding to Laurel B
I agree with laurel about the argument against legalizing marijuana. Even though legalizing it would bring a large increase in revenue for the government, its still a mind-altering drug and its effects on people's health is something that the government has to consider before they make it readily available to the public. That is why I think that the government should take measures to control and respond to the drug if they do choose to legalize it. Such as controling who buys it and when and also where they smoke and who they smoke it around. I think similiar smoking laws should be in place for marijuana that are in place for cigarettes.
Alex J. responding to Jakob R.
There is no proof to say that the legalization of marijuana would lead to lives being ruined. Personally, I believe that this is not a valid enough reason to keep marijuana criminalized. For example, Portugal went as far to not only legalize marijuana, but all drugs, and ten years later has seen a decrease in the amount of drug addicts by about 50%. Therefore, I believe that the legalization of marijuana may actually improve lives, as people would eventually decrease marijuana use.
Taylor M replying to Tom H:
Your historic example of opium production in China was interesting but I don't think it's relevant to what would happen if we legalized marijuana today. Most people in our society are educated enough to know the negative effects of smoking pot. Also, anyone who has the desire to use marijuana can easily gain access to it and will use it anyway. I don't think people's performance in the workplace will be affected for this reason and also, it is similar to alcohol and tobacco use in that people must be responsible with its use and know how they are affected by it.
Rebecca C.
1. It is believed that legalizing marijuana will benefit the US government because it will become a taxable good that can be regulated. According to Forbes, lifting the marijuana prohibition would save $7.7 billion in combined state and federal spending. In comparison to other drugs—such as alcohol, tobacco, or even cocaine—it is a safer, non-addictive substance. By legalizing it, the government can also ensure the quality and safety protocol of its manufacture.
2. Critics argue that although legalization may bring in new government revenue, it is not enough for it to be worth it. Compared to “harder drugs,” marijuana is too cheap to profit off of. The effects of legalizing marijuana are also too unclear to make a proper judgement. For example, some argue that legalization will lead to increased users and decrease worker productivity. In addition, legalization has the potential to hurt poor, non-white communities.
3. Milton Friedman believes that marijuana should be legalized for economic, social, and moral reasons. He is the economist that claimed legalization would save the government $7.7 billion. In addition, he claims that there is an unfair social stigma against marijuana users that gets them in trouble with the law for, what he thinks, small offenses due to the prohibition law. The average person on the street could easily be convicted of possessing marijuana and sent to jail, even if the possession of the drug is no threat to society. Friedman argues that there is more harm done in not legalizing marijuana than there is in legalizing it because there is more corruption and harm in society.
4. Marijuana should be legalized. In my eyes, the scenario is all too similar with the alcohol prohibition in the early twentieth century. When a country bans the use of something that is already ingrained in its culture, the backlash is often not worth the prohibition to begin with. Some critics are concerned that legalizing marijuana will increase the number of marijuana users. However, part of the appeal in partaking in a drug is the “forbidden” aspect of it. If marijuana was no longer such a taboo in society, this would discourage many of the younger generations from being so curious about it. If anyone is allowed to do it, it takes away the appeal and curiosity. Even though it may introduce new, formerly law-wary people into the recreational drug, the number of people that would have been prevented from smoking marijuana would even the numbers out. In addition, legalizing it would make the marijuana that is in use safer by applying government regulations, instead of knowing that 10% of the US population is inhaling who-knows-what under the label of “marijuana.” In terms of how the US government should approach the legalization of marijuana, it may wish to look towards the Netherlands as an example. Despite the “notorious” reputation of its “coffee shops” and its own Sin City, Amsterdam, the drug use in terms of percentage is much lower in the Netherlands than it is in the US. Marijuana affects few part of the Netherlands, compared to the proliferation of the drug throughout virtually every US high school and college. The drug usage is very controlled in the Netherlands, and national output seems to suffer no set-backs. Rather than extensive usage by its own population, “drug tourism” in the Netherlands draws people around the world and remains one of its most distinctive tourism feats. With time, the situation in the US may become similar to that of the Netherlands if congress wants it to be.
Rebecca C. responding to John V.
John brings up a valid argument against the legalization of marijuana, which echoes the views of Reihan Salam. The ones that will be negatively impacted by the legalization of marijuana are the lower-performing schools in low socioeconomic neighborhoods. However, I don’t think you take into account the potential in government regulation. In the article, “Of Bongs and Bureaucrats,” the author argues that due to the unclear evidence of the true effects of marijuana, there should be a stringent consumption tax. If such a heavy tax is placed on the buying of marijuana, it ideally would make the drug less-accessible to lower class communities. In addition, if poorer communities are more susceptible and are already involved in marijuana usage, wouldn’t it be more beneficial if the government could regulate the content in legal marijuana and ensure that the marijuana smoked after legalization would be less harmful than whatever they are smoking now? You may say that marijuana has been proven to cause brain damage in young adults, but research is ambivalent, and there is plenty of research that says otherwise. As Grace Z. stated in an earlier post, “decades’ worth of studies have disproved any link between marijuana and long-term memory loss or “amotivational syndrome.” Perhaps the cause of the “brain damage” you refer to is the abundance of other toxins and chemicals that are added to “black market” marijuana to increase the weight of what is sold and therefore create bigger profits? In any case, the future of marijuana is too unclear to say for sure what direction drug usage will turn after its legalization. But I don’t think its entirely unwise, considering other country’s that have legalized it and continue to get along just fine.
Patrick C responding to Brian J
I agree that if in fact the US government does in fact decide make marijuana legal nation wide it must be very careful. Regulations and specific laws must be put in place that outline how, when,and where the drug is permitted. Also many more laws must be created that address the problems with making marijuana legal such as if it is allowed in a vehicle while you are driving. Ultimately, I think if the drug can be regulated properly and it doesn't create new dangers or problems then it makes economic sense to make marijuana legal.
Dan D
The strongest arguments favoring the legalization of marijuana are both economic and moral. It is argued that legalizing marijuana will confer great economic gain to the states that do so, as the newly legal weed will be taxed. On the moral side, some favor legalization because they feel that marijuana should not remain a prohibited substance due to the lack of harm it causes.
On the opposing end, people argue that we cannot allow marijuana to be legalized because people will abuse it more due to its increased availability, leading to greater amounts of addiction and drug use among the populace. Legalization would also, according to Reihan Salam, disproportionately harm the poor and people in chaotic households, as these people would be most likely to abuse the newly legal drug. He argues that we have a legal responsibility to protect these groups of citizens.
Milton Friedman argues that marijuana legalization would benefit the country economically, as it would result in $7.7 billion less spending on fighting part of the war on drugs and $6.2 billion more revenue from taxation. He also argues that legalization would lead to gains for companies which would grow and distribute cannabis, boosting the economy even further beyond tax gains and spending cuts.
Marijuana should definitely be legalized. The potential economic gains from legalization are too large to ignore; the states could gain some serious tax revenue from the sale of marijuana. It would also end a huge section of the war on drugs, which is particularly impactful as it would allow us to save a large amount of money on the enforcement of anti-drug laws and the incarceration of offenders. Beyond economics, social costs are almost nonexistent -- people in Colorado haven't been sitting around all day eating Taco Bell since marijuana has been legalized, nor have they turned to hard drugs through the supposed gateway of pot. Additionally, Reihan Salam's argument that we should not fully commercially allow marijuana due to the plight of those in lower income and at-risk households is ridiculous. Smoking marijuana will not confer any worse effects to these households than would smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol. It is also not the responsibility of the government to protect people from themselves, as Salam wants us to do.
Allison K responding to Ricki L.
I agree on your thoughts regarding its medical use. I also understand why you would be hesitant to agree with the legalization of marijuana because of the lack of testing. However, it is important to remember that the drug is already being used quite largely in the United States, but in ways where it is not always safe. There is a lot of crime associated with the drug. Because of the fact that it is not addicting, a lot of sellers will mix other drugs into it when they sell it, which makes it more harmful than the drug is by itself. If it was legal, then drug dealers would be less tempted to this because they wouldn't have clients who would be forced to buy it from them underground.
Castelli responding to Kenny P, I completely agree with your argument because marijuana should be regulated just like tobacco and alcohol. You should not be able to drive while under the influence of marijuana because it can impair motor skills. The health risks are still not nearly as serious as tobacco and even alcohol. Also I believe that if people are unmotivated, it isn't due to marijuana. I believe this because many U.S presidents smoked weed. Even Bill Gates and Oprah admitted to smoking marijuana, these people are some of the most influential people in the world.
Kathleen H
In reply to Caroline G
I agree with your argument. I think I completely overlooked your first point in my analysis, but marijuana certainly lacks the deadly qualities of alcohol. Although it is theoretically addictive - a person can become accustomed to using the drug, and there are mild withdrawal symptoms - the symptoms of marijuana withdrawal are less severe than those seen in nicotine smokers, and the drug is not known to lead to deaths. Also, the argument by Anderson & Rees is very interesting - to think, that a widely available beverage should cause more fatalities than this currently illegal drug!
I also agree with your idea that the sale of the substance would have to be carefully monitored. As Reihan Salam suggests in the Freakanomics article, even a comparably less harmful drug, such as cannabis, could prove problematic for lower-income or otherwise disadvantaged populations, so efforts would have to be made to keep this newly-legalized drug from becoming even more of a "vice" than it is at the moment. With a more readily available supply of marijuana, people could rather easily buy the drug and resell it - perhaps after cutting it with other, even less pleasant substances - so certain regulations would have to be put in place.
Dan D responding to Steven G
First of all, marijuana isn't really all that harmful to people, and it certainly isn't harmful enough that a significant portion of taxes would be going towards treatment for weed-related disorders. Second of all, legalizing marijuana wouldn't make everyone rush their local pot shop to get smoking -- it didn't happen in Colorado, and it's not going to happen anywhere else. Only the people that were going to smoke anyway would if it were legalized. Think about it: if heroin were made legal right this very moment, I certainly wouldn't be running to Stop & Shop for a fix, nor would the vast majority of the population. The only people who would go would be those who were either already doing it or who were going to do it anyway. Third, so what if marijuana makes people lazy, unhealthy, or stupid? It shouldn't be the responsibility of the government to dictate how lazy, unhealthy, and stupid I'm allowed to be, nor should it be allowed to control substances on the grounds of how lazy-ifying, unhealthy, or stupefying they may be.
Chrisitian Spagna
in response to James Allen
I have to personally disagree with your claims against the legalization of marijuana. I believe it is beneficial to legalize marijuana and wouldn't do the country any harm. No matter if a drug is legal or illegal people will still find ways to get the drugs and do them. During prohibition in the 1920's when alcohol was illegal, even though it was illegal people still found ways to obtain it. And same goes for marijuana today. Even though it is illegal right now in a majority of states people still find ways to get it and do it. So the point I'm trying to get at is that it would only be beneficial for the US to legalize marijuana because no matter if it is legal or not people will still do it and why would the government not jump on the opportunity to make billions in revenue on a product that people will do regardless of its legality. And secondly marijuana has been seen to be safer than alcohol in many studies, so in essence the government is doing no harm in legalizing marijuana and has the opportunity to make an abundance in revenue to get the US out of the deficit it currently is at the same time.
Steven R responding to Rob B
I agree with you on what the biggest risk is of legalizing marijuana, but I believe that you are overestimating the actual aftermath and effects of its legalization. Marijuana is already legalized in nearly half of the states. Thus, its overall legalization would not be that big of a deal or surprise. Also, in terms of the number of people smoking it, I believe this number will remain unaffected or possibly even drop due to the fact that people are no longer breaking the law. Thus, I believe there will be less of a need to crack down on people "driving high." Like other drugs that were illegal but currently are not, the hype will die down and in a few years its effects won't be noticed. Possibly, its greater abundance could have positive effects. One of these is that the United States government can benefit from taxing the substance.
Rawann E. responding to Arianna D post:
I agree with what you are saying, this would be great revenue for our country and help to end the budget deficit. However, I believe there is not enough research on the effects of marijuana in the long term to make it legal. I beileve allowing a drug like this to now be legal will lead to great consequences like higher crimes, and other drugs being legalized because it helps to bring in great revenue. I beileve there must be more research in order to make it legal.
Rawann E. responding to Arianna D post:
I agree with what you are saying, this would be great revenue for our country and help to end the budget deficit. However, I believe there is not enough research on the effects of marijuana in the long term to make it legal. I beileve allowing a drug like this to now be legal will lead to great consequences like higher crimes, and other drugs being legalized because it helps to bring in great revenue. I beileve there must be more research in order to make it legal.
Jakob R. responding to Gabriel G.
I think that the argument Gabe pointd out about how an increase in marijuana consumpion would lead to a decrease in alcohol consumption is a good point, because if more people are doing a lesser drug then, as he pointed out, there should be less crime. However, I disaree with his satemen because I dont entirely believe that if people start doing marijuana then they will stop drinking. More than likely, they will continue to do both drugs, leading to worse and increased effects than before.
Jesse M. responding to JJ
Dear Mr. Foley,
You have brought up two valid arguments. One is that it will be hard to detect a stoned driver. Although I’m not saying that it is okay to drive stoned, I think that if people resort to using marijuana over alcohol, it will greatly decrease the number of car accident fatalities caused by drunk driving. They have yet to seen a true increase in deaths related to marijuana and driving. I believe that this tells you that if it’s legal and people do switch to it, our society will benefit. Also, like with alcohol, patterns with being under the influence and driving will present themselves and cops will eventually catch on. This will lead them to be able to detect more drivers under the influence. But, since you said it is hard to detect someone driving stoned, isn’t that a good thing? That means that they aren’t doing anything unordinary and they are driving safely like usual. Don’t get me wrong though, I don’t believe that people should be able to drive stoned. I do believe it is not as bad as driving drunk.
Secondly, you stated that the economy would eventually make a turn for the worse due to lazy workers as a result of the marijuana. I disagree. I believe that if the government is getting more in revenue, and the economy has more money being spent (not in the black market), the economy will head in the right direction. From that point on, people will fulfill their self-wants and the “invisible hand” will come into play. They won’t let themselves get to the point that they aren’t working efficiently enough because they’d rather do well for themselves.
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