The Impacts of Legalizing Marijuana

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Updated: Dec 05, 2024
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Category:Drugs
Date added
2020/02/11
Pages:  2
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The debate surrounding the legalization of marijuana continues to spark passionate discussions, reflecting its complexity and relevance in today’s society. Its impacts are far-reaching, affecting health, society, and morality. The decision to legalize marijuana, whether for medicinal or recreational purposes, warrants comprehensive scrutiny. This essay aims to explore the multifaceted consequences of legalizing marijuana, considering health implications, societal effects, and moral considerations, while arguing against its legalization based on these factors.

Health Implications

Legal or not, marijuana use presents significant health concerns.

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Extensive research has documented that non-medical marijuana users are at an increased risk for various physical ailments, particularly those affecting the respiratory system and pulmonary functions. The inhalation of marijuana smoke can lead to chronic bronchitis and other respiratory issues. Moreover, psychological problems are also prevalent among users, with studies indicating connections to depression, insomnia, anxiety, and the potential for drug addiction. The regular use of marijuana has also been associated with cognitive impairments, which can affect daily functioning and quality of life.

Additionally, marijuana use has been linked to criminal justice involvement and lower academic achievement. The study by Lankenau et al. (2017) highlights these adverse outcomes, suggesting that marijuana use may contribute to a cycle of social and economic disadvantage. If marijuana were to be legalized and used without restraint, these medical, social, and emotional conditions could become more pervasive throughout our communities, exacerbating existing public health challenges.

Societal Effects

In some areas, marijuana dispensaries have become as ubiquitous as popular fast-food chains like McDonald's or Starbucks (Kleber, 2012). This proliferation raises concerns about the normalization of marijuana use and its potential to encourage experimentation, especially among young people. The availability and social acceptability of marijuana could lead to increased usage rates, particularly among impressionable youth, who might perceive it as harmless due to its legal status.

An article in the Drug and Alcohol Review reported that among young adults, 19.6% (6.8 million individuals) admitted to using marijuana within a one-month period in 2014. This represented the highest rate of use among any age group in the United States (Lankenau et al., 2017). With the increased availability and legality of marijuana, these numbers are likely to rise, posing a threat to public health and safety.

Furthermore, the ethical implications of prescribing medical marijuana are contentious. Currently, it is not legal for doctors to prescribe marijuana due to its classification as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Prescribing it could result in severe legal repercussions for physicians, including the revocation of their DEA licensure and potential imprisonment (Gregorio, 2014). This legal framework underscores the importance of maintaining stringent controls over marijuana use to protect both medical professionals and patients.

Moral Considerations

Some argue that religious organizations should refrain from engaging in political issues such as marijuana legalization. However, President Dallin H. Oaks contends that there are moral absolutes that should underpin public policy, shifting focus from individual rights to communal responsibilities. He argues that religious perspectives are vital in discussions of moral issues, drawing parallels between the abstinence from nuclear war and sexual relations among teenagers (Oaks, 1992). I concur with President Oaks that religious leaders should engage in important moral debates with their congregations, as their insights can guide ethical decision-making.

Legalizing marijuana could entice more individuals to experiment with it, under the misconception that its medicinal use implies broader benefits. This belief could promote a culture of experimentation and misuse, particularly among young people who are more susceptible to peer influence and societal trends.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the legalization of marijuana presents numerous challenges that cannot be overlooked. From health risks to societal impacts and moral considerations, the negative consequences of legalizing marijuana are significant. It is crucial to maintain a balanced approach that prioritizes public health, safety, and ethical standards. By keeping stringent controls over marijuana use and resisting further legalization, we can protect our communities from the potentially harmful effects of widespread marijuana use. The discourse surrounding marijuana legalization must continue to evolve, incorporating diverse perspectives to ensure informed and responsible decision-making.

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The Impacts of Legalizing Marijuana. (2020, Feb 11). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/the-impacts-of-legalizing-marijuana/