Pubdate: Wed, 19 Oct 2005
Source: Lantern, The (OH Edu)
Copyright: 2005 The Lantern
Contact:  http://www.thelantern.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1214
Author: Kirk Muse
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v05/n1635/a07.html

ILLEGAL DRUG LAWS RELATIVELY NEW

To the Editor:

I'm writing about Chris Planer's thoughtful opinion: "Marijuana not so
bad" printed on Oct. 17.

Ninety years ago there was no such thing as an illegal drug. Ninety
years ago, all types of recreational and self-medicating drugs were
legally available in local pharmacies or other licensed business
establishments for pennies per dose.

Ninety years ago, drug lords, drug cartels or even drug dealers as we
know them today didn't exist. Neither did the term "drug-related crime."

Today we have no illegal foods, even though many foods are very
unhealthy - especially if consumed in large portions over several years.

Perhaps we should criminalize a long list of potentially unhealthy
foods - for our own good of course. Think of all the government jobs
and careers this would create.

No doubt unhealthy food prohibition would be just as successful as our
alcohol and drug prohibition policies.

Kirk Muse

Mesa, AZ
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake