| Marijuana should be legalized in all countries, or at the very least, decriminalized. |
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Asked 2 years ago
by Skanky  Korea, Republic of |
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About
I am American but I teach English is Seoul, South Korea.
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16 Points
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Isn't decriminalising something the same as legalising it?? If it isn't legal, it's a crime.
The term decriminalization is used to describe the reduction of the crime of marijuana use use to a misdemeanor, much like a traffic ticket. It is still "illegal" but police enforce it as a very low priority or not at all.
I see... it's pretty much like that now in many situations in Canada, unless you have committed another crime, or if you are carrying large amounts or dealing. I can see the reasons why it could be legalised. It is not nearly as bad as alcohol... but I still don't think it benefits society as a whole. I beleive in exceptions to the law, but not sure where I stand on officially leagalising it.
The case for medical use of marijuana is solid. A recent science article linked marijuana use as a potent anti-depressant and the American Psychiatric Society unanimously voted to back marijuana use for this purpose. The pathophysiology of marijuana's effects on the brain are understood to be organic. The active ingredient in pot metabolizes into a naturally occurring carrier protein for neurotransmitters. One might say that the brain evolved to use cannabinoid. The same can NOT be said of alcohol or tobacco. I'm a believer in freedom of choice in personal matters such as the pursuit of happiness. :)
Example: Being drunk in public in America is technically illegal. But as long as you aren't being disorderly or driving, you aren't going to have a problem. It's decriminalized.
Same could be said for j-walking or speeding.