Legalizing marijuana is a long-debated issue in many countries around the world. Some proponents argue that legalizing marijuana can help reduce drug-related crimes, decrease the number of people who use hard drugs, and create new sources of revenue for the government. At the same time, opponents claim that legalizing marijuana will increase the number of addicted individuals and worsen public health.
One of the main arguments in favor of legalizing marijuana is the reduction of drug-related crimes. People who use marijuana should not be criminally persecuted, as this causes significant harm to society. Legalizing marijuana can also reduce the amount of money spent on drug enforcement and allow the police to focus on more serious crimes. The following argument is the reduction of the number of people who use hard drugs (Coley et al. 42). Many people start using drugs like cocaine and heroin after trying marijuana. Legalizing marijuana can decrease the number of people who try drugs and, therefore, reduce the number of people who become addicted to drugs. Finally, legalizing marijuana can become a new source of revenue for the government. The government can tax the sale of marijuana and use this money to finance social programs such as healthcare and education.
However, there is an opposing argument. Some people believe that legalizing marijuana will increase the number of dependent individuals and worsen public health. Marijuana is a drug that can cause various health problems, such as mental disorders, high blood pressure, and respiratory problems (Coley et al. 42). Moreover, long-term use of marijuana can lead to addiction and psychological dependence, which can lead to a decrease in quality of life and an increased risk of various diseases.
In conclusion, the legalization of marijuana is a complex issue that requires deep discussion and analysis. Although many legalization supporters point out its potential benefits, it is essential to remember the dangers associated with marijuana use. The best way to decide on this issue is to conduct more detailed research and find a balance between potential benefits and risks to society as a whole.
Work Cited
Coley, Rebekah Levine, et al. “Recreational Marijuana Legalization and Adolescent Use of Marijuana, Tobacco, and Alcohol.” Journal of Adolescent Health, vol. 69, no. 1, 2021, pp. 41-49.