Pubdate: Mon, 10 Feb 2014
Source: Washington Times (DC)
Copyright: 2014 The Washington Times, LLC.
Contact:  http://www.washingtontimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/492
Author: Robert A. Poggi

CRIME, POVERTY AND MARIJUANA

In the rush to decriminalize, legalize and accept marijuana into 
society as just another harmless social activity, we may be creating 
massive problems for the future.

Clearly, nothing said here is going to change the minds of those who 
believe that marijuana is no worse than alcohol, tobacco or too much 
sugar, but even if that were true, why would we want to add another 
unhealthy product to the list? One problem, however, is that this 
belief is contrary to all of the science. The minimum dangers, 
according to most of the research, are as follows: addiction, heart 
and lung complications (the jury is out on a connection to lung 
cancer, though), mental illness, car accidents, IQ loss and poor 
academic performance, poor job performance and loss of quality of life.

The research is out there for legislators, teachers, parents and 
anyone interested in knowing the truth before making decisions about 
the use of marijuana. Other countries have tried decriminalization or 
legalization; let us hear from them on their results.

A second problem is that the media coverage of the issue seems to 
leave out the science. In the majority of mainstream media stories on 
the subject, there is at most a brief reference to the science or 
opposition views, but there is rarely in depth discussion or 
presentation of facts, leaving most of us just hearing the "it's not 
dangerous" refrain.

Then there's the crime. We have seen the costs of marijuana rise 
significantly in those areas where it has been legalized. Put that 
together with the high rate of school dropouts, youth unemployment 
and continued poverty in inner cities - and then form your own 
conclusions about what comes next.

ROBERT A. POGGI Alexandria
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom