Arguments for and against government regulation of Marijuana

Marijuana is a controversial drug that has been up for debate for its legalization ever since it was considered contraband in the 1920's. (Citation needed) It grows from the Cannabis plant and contains a chemical called delta-9-tetrahydrocannibol, or otherwise commonly known as "THC". This chemical has been clinically proven to show that it alters the consciousness of a person when introduced orally via digestion, or through absorbed through respiration. (Citation needed) Some would say that it is the "gateway drug", in that it leads to the usage of other, more dangerous drugs, and that it should not be made legal. While other groups argue that the use of substances is irrelevant, since it is based on the will of the user, and again others may argue that marijuana use can potentially be beneficial in medical contexts; not only that, but financially viable too. One must then determine whether it is ethical for the US Government to control and regulate Marijuana—as it does already, by federally banning it?—or if not, does legalization necessitate the resolution of this ethical dilemma? In order to understand whether Government regulation is ethical, one must understand why the drug itself is considered illegal and thus unethical as well.

As mentioned before, Marijuana is considered a “gateway drug.” The idea that “softer” drugs lead to “harder” ones implies that an increasing severity of crime will follow—due to each drug carrying an innate quality of varying illegality. However, one must consider multiple perspectives. Is the Government regulating the drug because it simply promotes crime? What of other entities, such as violence on television? If violence begets crime, should the Government then regulate television? No. But pove...

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...tic society is unlike a Dictatorship, or Fascist regime, or Monarchy for a reason. A Government body, composed of individuals—like individuals—cannot truly know the consequences of legalization, but still—in many uncertain circumstances—makes decisions, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worst. However, it is the society which the Government serves, which gives it power. It is then on us—society—to be entrusted with the task of demonstrating responsibility, and thus giving the Government the power of giving permission. Much like the social contracts which found our laws, mores, and norms, Government has a contract to society to meet its [societies] needs. Likewise, society is contracted to the Government, to not act beyond its needs—to be self-contained; otherwise borne out of our own selfishness those permissions are taken, and society is solely to blame.