Legalization of Marijuana: Just Say No

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Recommended: consequences of marijuana consumption on health. introduction

Pot, weed, grass, hay, Mary Jane: all names for the illegal drug marijuana. This drug can be used for either medical or recreational purposes. In the past election, many states voted for the legalization of this drug. Legalizing marijuana, in my opinion, would not be beneficial. Releasing this drug to a greater population would increase the chances of it falling into the hands of children and causing harm to those around the abuser. Also, marijuana is considered a “gate-way” drug, or a drug leading to the usage of methamphetamine, heroin, or any ‘harder’ drugs and its addiction is difficult to overcome. Many believe that its legalization would solve the economic crisis , but would placing the United States population in harm’s way be worth the monetary benefits?

Marijuana, when inhaled, has many harmful effects. According to the NIDA, the National Institute of Drug Abuse, “…marijuana intoxication can cause distorted perceptions, impaired coordination, difficulty with thinking and problem solving, and problems with learning and memory.” All of these symptoms of ‘getting high’ are similar to that of alcohol intoxication and may permanently damage the brain. Legalizing marijuana would allow abusers to smoke, potentially, wherever they please. This freedom poses a huge threat to the surrounding population. Driving high, for example, would be similar to driving drunk. Allowing this substance to be smoked legally would not restrict the abuser’s driving privileges once high. This new-found freedom would increase automobile accident rates and may increase fatalities. Children, as well, would be endangered by this freedom. With continuously developing brains, children are restricted from drinking until...

... middle of paper ...

...ut the joint and started worrying about our futures.

Works Cited

Kershaw, Sarah, and Rebecca Cathcart. "Marijuana Is Gateway Drug for Two Debates." The New York Times. 17 July 2009. Web. 12 Mar. 2011. .

Klein, Joe. "Why Legalizing Marijuana Makes Sense - TIME." Breaking News, Analysis, Politics, Blogs, News Photos, Video, Tech Reviews - TIME.com. 16 Apr. 2009. Web. 12 Mar. 2011. .

"Marijuana - InfoFacts - NIDA." Nov. 2010. Web. 13 Mar. 2011. .

"Basic Facts About Drugs: Marijuana." ACDE Home Page. 1999. Web. 13 Mar. 2011. .

"Marijuana Addiction." Marijuana Addiction. 2005. Web. 13 Mar. 2011. .

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