Legalization of Marijuana

[Zykev2]

PLEASE TAKE A LOOK AT THE LINK BELOW BEFORE EVEN THINKING OF DEBATING.
Only the registered members can see the link.

I have not seen this debate in awhile and I am wondering peoples opinions, this also is a debate where people tend to take it in a more formal manor so lets try to keep this intelligent, I'm looking for a good debate.


Basically, Debate about Marijuana; Do you think its good? Should it be legalized?


I am pro legalization but I will let a person who wants to debate Con go first before I start to debate.

[Hutch]

Only the registered members can see the link.

[Zykev2]

Only the registered members can see the link.

Read what I said

I have not seen this debate in awhile

last post in that thread

July 28th, 2010

I'm trying to spark a good debate instead of the usual moronic bull crap that is usually posted in this section.

[Hutch]

Just continue onto that subject, I was quite aware of what you posted.

[Zykev2]

Just continue onto that subject, I was quite aware of what you posted.

I'd rather start a fresh debate, it doesn't really matter. You can stop posting because that topic is a few pages back, if you would like to debate me then fine if not stop posting because all you're doing is spamming to get your post count up and not contributing anything.

[Hutch]

I could careless about my "post count", I was just stating the fact of a thread consisting this debate was previously created and the idea of continuing onto that one.


Personally I think Marijuana should be legalized BUT I'll debate the other side.

There's many reasons why legalizing marijuana could back-fire. The legalization of marijuana gives the opportunity too many individuals that use and abuse this substance.

(I'LL ADD MORE TOO MY SIDE, JUST NEED TOO GET A FEW FACTS CORRECT)

[Trey]

I could careless about my "post count", I was just stating the fact of a thread consisting this debate was previously created and the idea of continuing onto that one.


Personally I think Marijuana should be legalized BUT I'll debate the other side.

There's many reasons why legalizing marijuana could back-fire. The legalization of marijuana gives the opportunity too many individuals that use and abuse this substance.

(I'LL ADD MORE TOO MY SIDE, JUST NEED TOO GET A FEW FACTS CORRECT)

Yet alcohol is legal, and alcohol is not only addictive but more dangerous and has a harsher effects on the body in terms of health and intoxication.

[Hutch]

Yet alcohol is legal, and alcohol is not only addictive but more dangerous and has a harsher effects on the body in terms of health and intoxication.

Yes, that's why it's also illegal too consume alcohol under the age of 21.

[Trey]

Yes, that's why it's also illegal too consume alcohol under the age of 21.

Yet you can't consume or posses marijuana at any age?

[Zykev2]

I could careless about my "post count", I was just stating the fact of a thread consisting this debate was previously created and the idea of continuing onto that one.


Personally I think Marijuana should be legalized BUT I'll debate the other side.

There's many reasons why legalizing marijuana could back-fire. The legalization of marijuana gives the opportunity too many individuals that use and abuse this substance.

(I'LL ADD MORE TOO MY SIDE, JUST NEED TOO GET A FEW FACTS CORRECT)

Thanks to con for his proposal, I first start off by saying A recent Government study indicates that over 83 Million people over the age of 12 years old will try Marijuana before they graduate school, and an estimated 200 Million Americans smoke it; on top of another 200 million will try it for the first time. Marijuana is THE most readily available illicit drug in the United States next to prescription medications. The legalization of Marijuana will obviously have an increase effect on the number of people who use and "abuse" Marijuana however it will in no way be a steep enough incline as to make an impressionable impact in the decision of legalization that con is proposing.
Look forward to your rebuttal.

[Fly]

I'm am 100% with legalize it. (for recreational use)
I'd say legalize but put rules on it. An age to buy it, use it, etc.

[Relapse]

I normally hate it when people just post stuff they found on other sites, but to be honest I don't know what all the side effects are or very many statistics on them.

but here are some reasons for the con side: (i'm just debating on the con side, but i could honestly care less)

These were taken from abovetheinfluence.com.



Marijuana
Marijuana is addictive. More teens are in treatment with a primary diagnosis of marijuana dependence than for all other illicit drugs combined.
Source: Treatment Episodes Data Set (TEDS) 1992-2002, SAMHSA, 2006

Young people who use marijuana weekly have double the risk of depression later in life.
Source: Patton, GC et al. "Cannabis use and mental health in young people: cohort study." British Medical Journal, 325: 1195–1198, 2002

Heavy Marijuana users are more likely than non-users to be diagnosed with schizophrenia later in life. A recent study found that people who had used marijuana more than 50 times before the age of 18, had a three fold increased risk of developing schizophrenia later in life.
Source: Zammit, S et al., "Self-reported cannabis use as a risk factor for schizophrenia in Swedish conscripts of 1969: historical cohort study," British Medical Journal, 325:1199-1201, 2002 Arseneault L, et al., "Cannabis use in adolescence and risk for adult psychosis: longitudinal prospective study," British Medical Journal, 325:1212-1213, 2002

Weed can cause increased heart rate and make some users extremely anxious or paranoid.
Source: NIDA. Marijuana: Facts for Teens, 2008

Heavy marijuana use impairs young people's ability to concentrate and retain information.
Source: Pope HG et al., "Early-onset cannabis use and cognitive deficits: what is the nature of the association?" Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 69(3): 303-310, 2003.

The short-term effects of marijuana can include problems with memory and learning.
Source: NIDA. Marijuana: Facts for Teens, 2008


This wasn't on here but I read or heard somewhere that in a city that had about 35 cases of children's suicide (under 18), 28 (give or take a few) when the did the autopsy were found to have traces of THC in them. (Now a teacher told me this, I couldn't find the source so I'm can't tell you how legit this actually is)

[Zykev2]

I normally hate it when people just post stuff they found on other sites, but to be honest I don't know what all the side effects are or very many statistics on them.

but here are some reasons for the con side: (i'm just debating on the con side, but i could honestly care less)

These were taken from abovetheinfluence.com.



Marijuana
Marijuana is addictive. More teens are in treatment with a primary diagnosis of marijuana dependence than for all other illicit drugs combined.
Source: Treatment Episodes Data Set (TEDS) 1992-2002, SAMHSA, 2006

Young people who use marijuana weekly have double the risk of depression later in life.
Source: Patton, GC et al. "Cannabis use and mental health in young people: cohort study." British Medical Journal, 325: 1195–1198, 2002

Heavy Marijuana users are more likely than non-users to be diagnosed with schizophrenia later in life. A recent study found that people who had used marijuana more than 50 times before the age of 18, had a three fold increased risk of developing schizophrenia later in life.
Source: Zammit, S et al., "Self-reported cannabis use as a risk factor for schizophrenia in Swedish conscripts of 1969: historical cohort study," British Medical Journal, 325:1199-1201, 2002 Arseneault L, et al., "Cannabis use in adolescence and risk for adult psychosis: longitudinal prospective study," British Medical Journal, 325:1212-1213, 2002

Weed can cause increased heart rate and make some users extremely anxious or paranoid.
Source: NIDA. Marijuana: Facts for Teens, 2008

Heavy marijuana use impairs young people's ability to concentrate and retain information.
Source: Pope HG et al., "Early-onset cannabis use and cognitive deficits: what is the nature of the association?" Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 69(3): 303-310, 2003.

The short-term effects of marijuana can include problems with memory and learning.
Source: NIDA. Marijuana: Facts for Teens, 2008


This wasn't on here but I read or heard somewhere that in a city that had about 35 cases of children's suicide (under 18), 28 (give or take a few) when the did the autopsy were found to have traces of THC in them. (Now a teacher told me this, I couldn't find the source so I'm can't tell you how legit this actually is)

How can they even put that as an issue? When they do autopsies on people they use blood as they're not going to extract urine for a test, THC can be recognized in the blood for weeks. If Millions of kids use Cannabis and only 35 cases had been reported how can anyone link Marijuana to suicide? That is like saying someone committed suicide and there was aspirin in there system that is what made them kill themselves, its simply not a valid argument. Those 35 or string from mental illnesses and not Marijuana that made them kill themselves.

[Cactaur]

How can they even put that as an issue? When they do autopsies on people they use blood as they're not going to extract urine for a test, THC can be recognized in the blood for weeks. If Millions of kids use Cannabis and only 35 cases had been reported how can anyone link Marijuana to suicide? That is like saying someone committed suicide and there was aspirin in there system that is what made them kill themselves, its simply not a valid argument. Those 35 or string from mental illnesses and not Marijuana that made them kill themselves.

He was talking about one city, and one city that has a million kids that all do pot is pretty...unlikely. They never really said "thats" why they killed themselves but just because there was THC in all 35 cases. Little "strange" if I say so. Yet we don't know all the info, how many kids DID kill themselves in all, how big is the city adolescent population.

But yet Relapse did say this....so don't go attacking him o.O.



(Now a teacher told me this, I couldn't find the source so I'm can't tell you how legit this actually is)

[Zykev2]

He was talking about one city, and one city that has a million kids that all do pot is pretty...unlikely. They never really said "thats" why they killed themselves but just because there was THC in all 35 cases. Little "strange" if I say so. Yet we don't know all the info, how many kids DID kill themselves in all, how big is the city adolescent population.

But yet Relapse did say this....so don't go attacking him o.O.

This is what I hate, someone posts something, somebody else rebuttals and they take it personally as "attacking them." In no way what so ever was I attacking him, the object of debating is to eliminate your opponents argument which is what I did. For a debate you are supposed to have your facts ready and not just talk off the top of your head, if you're talking off the top of your head you're not debating and you argument is therefore void. That is his problem if he doesn't actually know what she said or the sources, don't post...simple as that. You're not debating you're just discussing. I am a little frustrated because most people on this community don't know how to debate or read the sticky. In no way what-so-ever was I "attacking him" nor flaming him, I was simply stating how what his teacher said had no implication or relevance in the legalization of marijuana debate.

[Relapse]

This is what I hate, someone posts something, somebody else rebuttals and they take it personally as "attacking them." In no way what so ever was I attacking him, the object of debating is to eliminate your opponents argument which is what I did. For a debate you are supposed to have your facts ready and not just talk off the top of your head, if you're talking off the top of your head you're not debating and you argument is therefore void. That is his problem if he doesn't actually know what she said or the sources, don't post...simple as that. You're not debating you're just discussing. I am a little frustrated because most people on this community don't know how to debate or read the sticky. In no way what-so-ever was I "attacking him" nor flaming him, I was simply stating how what his teacher said had no implication or relevance in the legalization of marijuana debate.

I know you weren't attacking me or whatever so lets not worry about that anymore...

but it does have relevance to the legalization of marijuana, those are reasons why it shouldn't be legal.

[Zykev2]

I know you weren't attacking me or whatever so lets not worry about that anymore...

but it does have relevance to the legalization of marijuana, those are reasons why it shouldn't be legal.

What I mean by that is its not a valid reason nor credible reason against marijuana being legal seeing as there is no legitimate scientifically facts backing up what your teacher was saying.

[Dean]

Let's just get rid of these Marijuana plants and we wouldn't have to worry about this at all!

[Cactaur]

This is what I hate, someone posts something, somebody else rebuttals and they take it personally as "attacking them." In no way what so ever was I attacking him, the object of debating is to eliminate your opponents argument which is what I did. For a debate you are supposed to have your facts ready and not just talk off the top of your head, if you're talking off the top of your head you're not debating and you argument is therefore void. That is his problem if he doesn't actually know what she said or the sources, don't post...simple as that. You're not debating you're just discussing. I am a little frustrated because most people on this community don't know how to debate or read the sticky. In no way what-so-ever was I "attacking him" nor flaming him, I was simply stating how what his teacher said had no implication or relevance in the legalization of marijuana debate.

You don't even read the argument that I threw, but just imply I am stupid for an extra remark.
You just type a long rather pointless paragraph that had nothing to do with the topic complaining how you were not flaming.
I will probably have a spelling error in there and you will call me "unintelligent and stupid" but won't read the post.

[Dean]

You don't even read the argument that I threw, but just imply I am stupid for an extra remark.
You just type a long rather pointless paragraph that had nothing to do with the topic complaining how you were not flaming.
I will probably have a spelling error in there and you will call me "unintelligent and stupid" but won't read the post.

You were doing a rebuttal(defending him, or whoever), technically, but you should be reattacking. (debate-wise) :)

And yeah, Zykev2 was asking questions. "Cross-examination"

[h00diescape]

I'm am 100% with legalize it. (for recreational use)
I'd say legalize but put rules on it. An age to buy it, use it, etc.

Same, but anyway I know i will still be able to get someone to supply me it just like I can get fags or drink sooo, no age limit :D

[Yankin Denz]

Illegal...
you get high you go drive get in a wreck and die and kill other Innocent people
end of story

[h00diescape]

Illegal...
you get high you go drive get in a wreck and die and kill other Innocent people
end of story

What about alcohol?

[Dean]

What about alcohol?

Another thread for that mate.

[h00diescape]

Another thread for that mate.

yh but he said it should be ilegal because you can get high and crash on achohol you can get drunk and crash :L

[Ficho]

Dont know.. marijuana is preety bad for people, in my opinion, for 2 reasons: money and health..
I never did drugs, never smoked, prob never will.. but I know people spend ALOT... ALOT!! money on those stuff, alchocol too.. and plus its not healthy at all..
so I dont see point in life where you spend alot of money for getting more % of dieing only couze u wanted few moments to be good? (sry for ultra bad english =/ )

[Zykev2]

Illegal...
you get high you go drive get in a wreck and die and kill other Innocent people
end of story

Interesting point, contrary to popular belief, There has been numerous studies conducted recently supporting that Cannabis is relatively benign when it comes to impairment of motor vehicle skills while under the influence of Marijuana. Obviously driving while under the influence of Marijuana isn't as safe as driving while sober however I am suggesting that it is not as dangerous as once thought and many legal narcotics available including emotions, driving while high on Prescription medication, alcohol, and being Sad, tired, or angry can impair ones ability to drive much worse than that of Cannabis. In fact, the Department for Highway Safety conducted numerous studies which found.


In summary, this program of research has shown that marijuana, when taken alone, produces a moderate degree of driving impairment which is related to the consumed THC dose. The impairment manifests itself mainly in the ability to maintain a steady lateral position on the road, but its magnitude is not exceptional in comparison with changes produced by many medicinal drugs and alcohol. Drivers under the influence of marijuana retain insight in their performance and will compensate where they can, for example, by slowing down or increasing effort.

and


Epidemiological research has shown that THC is infrequently detected in the blood of fatally injured drivers as the only drug present. In most cases alcohol is also detected. The effects of the combination of THC and alcohol on actual driving performance have never been studied in the presence of other traffic.

another study conducted by Hartford Hospital found similar results.


source; Only the registered members can see the link.
Only the registered members can see the link.

[Relapse]

I know its been a while but while all the statistics show it being not as bad as originally thought? Science has never proven it to be bad. Politicians are the ones who have deemed it bad.

On the con side of legalizing marijuana there will be more blood shed if corporations try to get into the distribution of marijuana.

[Slik]

On the con side of legalizing marijuana there will be more blood shed if corporations try to get into the distribution of marijuana.

Care to elaborate?

[Bob]

Care to elaborate?

I think he means that once marijuana is legalized everyone who's anyone will be going after it and thus the rival drug dealers will start mowing down other drug dealers because they're stealing their business.

[Slik]

I think he means that once marijuana is legalized everyone who's anyone will be going after it and thus the rival drug dealers will start mowing down other drug dealers because they're stealing their business.

Drug dealers aren't corparations, if there is a legalization of marijuana people will be operating as businesses. With businesses comes laws which the businesses much abide by. People won't be selling weed off the streets because people would rather go to a shop where they can trust the source. If you have ever been to places such as amsterdam you'll find that people on the streets are selling other drugs that are illegal because there is a demand for it.

[J i m b o]

Im all for it if they made pot legal it would solve the economy problem in america just from all the extra tax money from people buying weed.

[Bob]

Drug dealers aren't corparations, if there is a legalization of marijuana people will be operating as businesses. With businesses comes laws which the businesses much abide by. People won't be selling weed off the streets because people would rather go to a shop where they can trust the source. If you have ever been to places such as amsterdam you'll find that people on the streets are selling other drugs that are illegal because there is a demand for it.

With legal cigarettes you've got people who stand around and go, "Hey kid, want some cigarettes?" That's what I was merely referring to.

[J i m b o]

With legal cigarettes you've got people who stand around and go, "Hey kid, want some cigarettes?" That's what I was merely referring to.

That's a lie because it takes me forever to find someone to bum a cigarette off of.

[Slik]

With legal cigarettes you've got people who stand around and go, "Hey kid, want some cigarettes?" That's what I was merely referring to.

What has that got to do with blood being shed then? You think there will be drug dealers standing on the streets fighting over who gets to sell weed to kids? Get real.

[Zykev2]

I think he means that once marijuana is legalized everyone who's anyone will be going after it and thus the rival drug dealers will start mowing down other drug dealers because they're stealing their business.

Introduction
I know what you mean but that was in no way stated, I think he means that violence would break out between drug cartels and Corporate leaders and dispensaries for the lost profit. That's a war that they just cannot win. While Con mike make the argument that they will transfer to heavier drugs such as Cocaine and Heroin as there main source of income, it neither Compares with the numbers nor the amount of Money they would be making by letting Marijuana prohibition continue.

Rebuttal
On October 18 when the Mexican Army and police seized 134 tons of marijuana, wrapped and ready to be smuggled from Tijuana across the border. This was estimated worth of $338 Million. While it is true that the Drug cartels would try to import heavier amounts of different narcotics such as Cocaine and Heroin, the drug market isn't as available as it is with Marijuana. Thus in turn severely crippling drug Cartels. As referenced on this link (Only the registered members can see the link.) which states that "Over 95 Million Americans from age 12 years old to age 50+ have smoked Marijuana at least once." According to a small scale study conducted by Edward M. Brecher "states "25 percent (2,000,000 to 3,000,000 smokers) were "social users, smoking marijuana on occasion when it is available, usually in a group context." and "The remaining 10 percent or less (800,000 to 1,200,000 marijuana smokers) "can be considered chronic users who devote significant portions of their time to obtaining and using the drug." and as referenced in this article Only the registered members can see the link. states "A 1997 study found that nearly 1.5 million people regularly abuse cocaine" While that study is outdated I recognize, one of the main reasons Marijuana is not smoked regularly by many Americans is the fact its illegal, legalization would bring more people to Smoke Marijuana thus increasing the amount of money the drug cartels lose compared to the margin they would be making on heavier drugs such as Cocaine and Heroin. Marijuana would make a very big dent in drug Cartel industry.

Sources;
Only the registered members can see the link.
Only the registered members can see the link.
Only the registered members can see the link.


I'll be looking forward to Con's argument.

[Relapse]

Care to elaborate?

The Cartels and Gangs that run the drug operation right now want it to be illegal. If it becomes legal corporations will pick it up. Then nobody wants to risk buying from the black market, where the only choice you have when something goes wrong is to kill them. So the Gangs and cartels would loose all of their clients. Which is billions of dollars. The most obvious thing they can turn to is violence.

Zykev's post has a lot of correct info.




Drug dealers aren't corparations, if there is a legalization of marijuana people will be operating as businesses. With businesses comes laws which the businesses much abide by. People won't be selling weed off the streets because people would rather go to a shop where they can trust the source. If you have ever been to places such as amsterdam you'll find that people on the streets are selling other drugs that are illegal because there is a demand for it.

Drug Dealers are basically corporations without the legal title. They all have a hierarchy, which commands are followed through, and executed. I'm not talking about small gangs that sell weed to kids on the street. I'm talking about the Mexican Mafia, the Cartels. The ones that get the marijuana into america.

[Slik]

The Cartels and Gangs that run the drug operation right now want it to be illegal. If it becomes legal corporations will pick it up. Then nobody wants to risk buying from the black market, where the only choice you have when something goes wrong is to kill them. So the Gangs and cartels would loose all of their clients. Which is billions of dollars. The most obvious thing they can turn to is violence.

Zykev's post has a lot of correct info.

You'll actually be suprised, if you look at the history of some famous coffee shops many high ranking dons made them and they are sucessful, more so than other corporations will be since they have experience with growing the plant and they have knowledge about the trade. While this can be learnt over time, they'll face such large competition from the black market dealers selling their weed in shops. Big corperate chains won't be able to pick up the trade straight away, this will give time for a shift between the illegal trade and the legal trade.

[Relapse]

You'll actually be suprised, if you look at the history of some famous coffee shops many high ranking dons made them and they are sucessful, more so than other corparations will be since they have experience with growing the plant and they have knowledge about the trade. While this can be learnt over time, they'll face such large competition from the black market dealers selling their weed in shops. Big corperate chains won't be able to pick up the trade straight away, this will give time for a shift between the illegal trade and the legal trade.

I knew previously that Marijuana was Kentucky's main cash crop, but with some further research it is proven to be many many others too. Marijuana is not at all that hard to grow, and has been researched by the US Government for atleast 80 years.


Based on a comparison with average production values of other crops from 2003 to 2005 marijuana is the top cash crop in 12 states, one of the top 3 cash crops in 30 states, and one of the top 5 cash crops in 39 states. [23] Marijuana is the largest cash crop in Alaska, Alabama, California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia. (See Table 8 below.)

Domestic marijuana production often takes place in marginal areas not usually associated with agricultural production. In addition to indoor cultivation in trailers, closets, basements, and attics marijuana is grown outdoors along fence lines, in forests, on other public lands, in undeveloped rural countryside areas, and on other parts of private land generally inaccessible and unseen by the public.

Only the registered members can see the link.

[Slik]

I knew previously that Marijuana was Kentucky's main cash crop, but with some further research it is proven to be many many others too. Marijuana is not at all that hard to grow, and has been researched by the US Government for atleast 80 years.



Only the registered members can see the link.

There is an art involved when growing marijuana to get the best yield possible, since there will be fierce competition the best farmers will be the most profitable, which is when expertise come into play.

[maxisdabbeastbruh]

Whether its legalized or not. It wont stop people from doing it. :L

[Owner of PkHonor]

I heard... The reason why Marijuana is not legalized, is because Afghanistan... and other countries that are believed to have a relation with "enemies" of the west own most of the marijuana business.

And by legalizing it, you have just provided these countries with income.

[Zykev2]

I heard... The reason why Marijuana is not legalized, is because Afghanistan... and other countries that are believed to have a relation with "enemies" of the west own most of the marijuana business.

And by legalizing it, you have just provided these countries with income.

Not true, Marijuana isn't even the most major cash crop in Afghanistan. The poppy is, Afghan heroin is amongst the most common and potent heroin found on the U.S streets and most of the world. Also if Marijuana were to be legalized and cooperations took over they would most likely grow in the U.S because Marijuana is not like other industries where there has to be hundreds of workers making the same thing so it wouldn't make any sense to outsource it, it is possible they will but most major businesses will most likely grow in the States. We have no always been "enemies" with Afghanistan and Iraq in fact in the late 80's-90's we helped Osama Bin Laden and the Taliban fight off communist occupation.

[Mitchell]

Even though I created the last thread, I'll continue it onto this one.

Marijuana would show positive effects if it were legalized. Alcohol is FAR worse then Marijuana will ever be. Sure it kills a few brain cells, but Alcohol kills people in general. Far more deaths with Alcohol than Marijuana. It's good for medical use, and it also can be made to use clothing. The stem (from what I've been told, I'm not 100% sure of this) is stronger than almost any other fabric used in clothing, and could be used to give clothes to those in need.

Today's laws are so fucked up as well. It's a felony to hold an ounce of Marijuana on you, yet if you go and steal something from someone it's just a misdemeanor.

Economic wise it would create a big boost. The Gov't of U.S would probably tax the hell out of it anyways.

Eh, I think all in all would be a good legalization.


I heard... The reason why Marijuana is not legalized, is because Afghanistan... and other countries that are believed to have a relation with "enemies" of the west own most of the marijuana business.

And by legalizing it, you have just provided these countries with income.

The income they get? We would probably end up growing it here anyways.

[Kokos]

Marijuana is a substance that in most scenarios i say no to ... in saying this the legalization of Marijuana should happen, This whole world is based off of trying to teach you the right things to do in life. If so then you should be able to make decisions that will affect your body on the basis that you have enough knowledge of what the substance can do. Even if they dont legalize it do u think it will ever stop ... NO.. so let the people who do it out of your jails and save that room for the molesters and murders who deserve there stay.

[Zykev2]

Marijuana is a substance that in most scenarios i say no to ... in saying this the legalization of Marijuana should happen, This whole world is based off of trying to teach you the right things to do in life. If so then you should be able to make decisions that will affect your body on the basis that you have enough knowledge of what the substance can do. Even if they dont legalize it do u think it will ever stop ... NO.. so let the people who do it out of your jails and save that room for the molesters and murders who deserve there stay.

Fair enough, I respect that opinion.

[Kokos]

thanks =]

[J i m b o]

I am pro legalization for the reasons of:

- The Government itself would make MILLIONS of dollars more in taxes, helping the economy no matter where you live.
- There are much more things worse than marijuana . (Cigarettes, Alcohol, Even the common over the counter substance such as nyquil can be abused)
- Residents of California can get a cannabis card if they have cancer, anxiety, or any medical reason really.
- Nobody has died from smoking weed.
- People can still drive while stone,high,baked, whatever you would want to call it, unlike alcohol where many people have died from driving while intoxicated.

There are many more reasons but I cbf to list them all.

[Kokos]

Agreed Jim

[Major]

I am pro legalization for the reasons of:

- The Government itself would make MILLIONS of dollars more in taxes, helping the economy no matter where you live.
- There are much more things worse than marijuana . (Cigarettes, Alcohol, Even the common over the counter substance such as nyquil can be abused)
- Residents of California can get a cannabis card if they have cancer, anxiety, or any medical reason really.
- Nobody has died from smoking weed.
- People can still drive while stone,high,baked, whatever you would want to call it, unlike alcohol where many people have died from driving while intoxicated.

There are many more reasons but I cbf to list them all.

I personally have never smoked Marijuana/Marajuana, whatever your spelling, so I can't offer a fair judgement for pro apart from knowledge from other people's experience which may or may not be bias. Either way I'm going to offer my opinion as I enjoy debates.


- The Government itself would make MILLIONS of dollars more in taxes, helping the economy no matter where you live.
I think this is the main point for legalisation of the drug.


- There are much more things worse than marijuana . (Cigarettes, Alcohol, Even the common over the counter substance such as nyquil can be abused)

IMO You can't consider this a point as just about everything can be "abused". You can drink too much water in a short space of time and die (like 4L in half an hour or something, i think). You can take too much paracetamol and kill yourself, etc. Although if compared death rates from your examples would be much higher.

You can also get Cannabis Dependence (Only the registered members can see the link.)
See my quote at the bottom of the post for why this is bad.


- People can still drive while stone,high,baked, whatever you would want to call it, unlike alcohol where many people have died from driving while intoxicated.

I'd like to know how you know this? From what i would imagine to be true, driving whilst stoned would be illegal even if cannabis was legalised due to the dangers of driving whilst high.


While many drugs clearly fall into the category of either stimulant, depressant, or hallucinogen, cannabis exhibits a mix of all properties, perhaps leaning the most towards hallucinogenic or psychedelic properties, though with other effects quite pronounced as well.

Hallucinations whilst driving would be bad, although apparently only some users experience hallucinations.


- Nobody has died from smoking weed.

While you could possibly argue that this is true, as unless someone has an extreme allergic reaction to THC or the like, you can't say cannabis has killed someone, it's found to be one of the most harmful drugs (according to The Lancet:
- An increased risk of Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
- A suspected link between cannabis use and heart disease (although not firmly established).
- Arguably a higher chance of contracting Lung Cancer (conflicting survey's).


Currently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved smoked marijuana for any condition or disease in the United States, largely because good quality scientific evidence for its use from U.S. studies is lacking; however, a major barrier to acquiring the necessary evidence is the lack of federal funding for this kind of research. Regardless, fourteen states have legalized cannabis for medical use. Canada, Spain, The Netherlands and Austria have also legalized cannabis for medicinal use.


Cannabis-associated respiratory disease can refer to neoplastic processes or to structural damage to the lung.
It it often compared to the damage done by tobacco, but it is the subject of much less study. Cannabis is sometimes considered more dangerous because filters are usually not used, and sometimes considered less dangerous because different molecules are involved.

[J i m b o]

1. I think this is the main point for legalisation of the drug.

2. IMO You can't consider this a point as just about everything can be "abused". You can drink too much water in a short space of time and die (like 4L in half an hour or something, i think). You can take too much paracetamol and kill yourself, etc. Although if compared death rates from your examples would be much higher.

3.You can also get Cannabis Dependence (Only the registered members can see the link.)
See my quote at the bottom of the post for why this is bad.



4. I'd like to know how you know this? From what i would imagine to be true, driving whilst stoned would be illegal even if cannabis was legalised due to the dangers of driving whilst high.



5.Hallucinations whilst driving would be bad, although apparently only some users experience hallucinations.



6.While you could possibly argue that this is true, as unless someone has an extreme allergic reaction to THC or the like, you can't say cannabis has killed someone, it's found to be one of the most harmful drugs (according to The Lancet:
- An increased risk of Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
- A suspected link between cannabis use and heart disease (although not firmly established).
- Arguably a higher chance of contracting Lung Cancer (conflicting survey's).

@ 2. Marijuana is something that you CANNOT die from I don't care what you say.

@ 4. Because my best friends mom is the biggest pot head I know and she drives stoned all the time, and all my friends with cars that smoke weed, even I have drove while stoned.

@ 5. You only hallucinate if you eat it or cough ALOT, but nonetheless that is a rare case, and you will be fine in a few hours.

@ 6. Whoever made those "Facts" probably smoke meth. Because marijuana is known to help cease the affects of cancer.

[bl00dshooter]

The thing is, it doesn't matter if marijuana directly kills you.
It still represents a threaten to your life. Many people are inclined to do bad things (not saying ALL do) while stoned.

Yes, it is know to help with cancer. But, do you have cancer? most people who smoke marijuana don't actually need it's medical effects.

Okay, your friend's mom drives while stoned and nothing has happened, so far. So many people have drove while under effects of alcohol and nothing happened. It might happen, I know I wouldn't risk my life doing it.

[J i m b o]

The thing is, it doesn't matter if marijuana directly kills you.
It still represents a threaten to your life. Many people are inclined to do bad things (not saying ALL do) while stoned.

Yes, it is know to help with cancer. But, do you have cancer? most people who smoke marijuana don't actually need it's medical effects.

Okay, your friend's mom drives while stoned and nothing has happened, so far. So many people have drove while under effects of alcohol and nothing happened. It might happen, I know I wouldn't risk my life doing it.

Well I'm saying Alcohol has way more affect on the way you function, and I don't who you know, but the people I know that smoke weed (which is basically everyone I know) doesn't do stupid things. When I smoke weed I chill at my friends house and we just talk. I don't see anything wrong with that.

[bl00dshooter]

Well I'm saying Alcohol has way more affect on the way you function, and I don't who you know, but the people I know that smoke weed (which is basically everyone I know) doesn't do stupid things. When I smoke weed I chill at my friends house and we just talk. I don't see anything wrong with that.

You can't just allow something because it's less awful than the other.

Besides, in live in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro. Drug dealing is a BIG problem here. Basically, here is how it works:

Drug dealers sell drugs to addicts. Addicts pay with money they, probably, steal.
Then, that (probably stole) money is used to buy weapons and such, so it ends up sustaining the crime itself.

[J i m b o]

You can't just allow something because it's less awful than the other.

Besides, in live in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro. Drug dealing is a BIG problem here. Basically, here is how it works:

Drug dealers sell drugs to addicts. Addicts pay with money they, probably, steal.
Then, that (probably stole) money is used to buy weapons and such, so it ends up sustaining the crime itself.

And that my friend is stereotyping at it's finest :)

[bl00dshooter]

And that my friend is stereotyping at it's finest :)

No, it is not.
Unless you don't buy from drug dealers, which I suppose you don't.

[J i m b o]

No, it is not.
Unless you don't buy from drug dealers, which I suppose you don't.

Well I don't even think of weed as a drug, and no I don't buy anything from "Drug dealers" I just smoke weed, I've probably only bought weed like 20 times? I'm 17 and I've been smoking since 13.

[bl00dshooter]

Well I don't even think of weed as a drug, and no I don't buy anything from "Drug dealers" I just smoke weed, I've probably only bought weed like 20 times? I'm 17 and I've been smoking since 13.

It's ok. The issue is, at least in Brazil, most (if not all) weed smokers buy it from drug dealers, thus sustaining the crime.

[Zykev2]

The thing is, it doesn't matter if marijuana directly kills you.
It still represents a threaten to your life. Many people are inclined to do bad things (not saying ALL do) while stoned.

Yes, it is know to help with cancer. But, do you have cancer? most people who smoke marijuana don't actually need it's medical effects.

Okay, your friend's mom drives while stoned and nothing has happened, so far. So many people have drove while under effects of alcohol and nothing happened. It might happen, I know I wouldn't risk my life doing it.

I disagree with Con's rebuttal...


It still represents a threaten to your life. Many people are inclined to do bad things (not saying ALL do) while stoned.
By Con's logic "It represents a threat to your life" therefore it should be illegal is outrageous, he neglects the fact that drugs such as: Tylenol and Asprin (and many prescriptions) can impare your driving and decision making process. Even natural emotions such as Anger, or Sadness can threaten your life and make you do bad things, doesn't make sense....


Yes, it is know to help with cancer. But, do you have cancer? most people who smoke marijuana don't actually need it's medical effects.

In the 15 states that have legalized Medicinal Marijuana have listed over 100 different illnesses that qualify for the prescribed amount of Medicinal Marijuana, including (but not limited too)

Depression
Anxiety
ADD
ADHD
Glaucoma
Cancer
AIDS
Muscle Spasms
Migraines
Epilepsy
Arthritis
Back pain
and much more, you can get Medicinal Marijuana prescribed very easily for many different illnesses because THC can be grown and manipulated into different forms (Specifically: Sativa and Indica) which offer different "highs" as well as parts of the body and illnesses they affect.

[Relapse]

Thanks to con for his proposal, I first start off by saying A recent Government study indicates that over 83 Million people over the age of 12 years old will try Marijuana before they graduate school, and an estimated 200 Million Americans smoke it; on top of another 200 million will try it for the first time. Marijuana is THE most readily available illicit drug in the United States next to prescription medications. The legalization of Marijuana will obviously have an increase effect on the number of people who use and "abuse" Marijuana however it will in no way be a steep enough incline as to make an impressionable impact in the decision of legalization that con is proposing.
Look forward to your rebuttal.

Where did you get those numbers? Because 200 Million Americans do not smoke marijuana as you said.

[Zykev2]

Where did you get those numbers? Because 200 Million Americans do not smoke marijuana as you said.

I meant to say have smoked it around the world and 200 million Americans have tried it/will try it sometime in their lives. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health 1 out of 3 Americans have smoked Cannibus sometime in their lifetime.

Only the registered members can see the link..12A


Statistics may be higher because they rely on people telling the government if they've smoked before and many people don't feel comfortable answering that question.

Only the registered members can see the link.

1:32 for further statistics.

[Relapse]

Those numbers seem to be significantly different than the ones here Only the registered members can see the link.

Even with the fact that these numbers come from about 10 years ago marijuana use would not have increased that much.

[Zykev2]

Those numbers seem to be significantly different than the ones here Only the registered members can see the link.

Even with the fact that these numbers come from about 10 years ago marijuana use would not have increased that much.

I am quoting a source directly from numerous government surveys in 2006, you're quoting a source from a single government study in 1998, I'm not saying its wrong but recent surveys back up the number is much larger than 69 million Americans . Also, Yes Marijuana use has tripled because since the 90's more studies have been conducted on Marijuana and more knowledge found to back the health benefits and lower risks than once thought. The source also states that those 200 million count the ones based on trends that will try it, The fact of the matter is these statistics go by surveys making them inaccurate of the actual amount that have tried it making the number greater than the projected amount for the fact that most people don't want to tell the Government they've smoked Marijuana.

[bl00dshooter]

so, USA has 308 millon people, and around 200 millon of them ever smoked? Wow, that certainly is a lot!

[Slik]

so, USA has 308 millon people, and around 200 millon of them ever smoked? Wow, that certainly is a lot!

311,046,511

Only the registered members can see the link.

[Zykev2]

The exact number of people who have and will try Marijuana is not what is to be debated, the only thing that matters is it has been proven in many surveys as the most widely used illicit substance in the world and no body will argue that it is not. It's been used by hundreds of millions of people and has been used since the earliest records in history, Marijuana has been a big part in the culture of civilizations around the world. The medicinal benefits have been studied and proven correct, and states as well as countries have started the long journey for either the Legalization or decriminalization of Marijuana which is what we're working for.

[Mish]

I will be talking about why Marijuana should be legalized. Marijuana has alot of good uses medical wise, as far as I know Marijuana has been legalized in California to be used for medial use only. And can be prescribed by a local doctor. I have heard marijuana is only illegal because the goverment does not make any profit as hemp is not a cash crop, people have been mis told about marijuana, we had this debate not long ago at school. I was debating it with a couple of people they stated; "Marijuana kills brain cells, and can kill you" I asked where did you here that from, he replied "My mum told me" lol, as far as I know I had never heard of that just to back up I was right I googled it and I was correct Marijuana does not do that. I think the older generations e.g my grandma who is over 60 years older then me thinks marijuana is bad because it is illegal.

[Owner of PkHonor]

DO NOT LEGALIZE MARIJUANA!!!! Memory loss!? Brain damage!?

[Mish]

DO NOT LEGALIZE MARIJUANA!!!! Memory loss!? Brain damage!?

And alcohol, which is legal to this day can cause all that and more

[J i m b o]

DO NOT LEGALIZE MARIJUANA!!!! Memory loss!? Brain damage!?

The question marks in this statement clarify that he doesn't know shit.

[tlozoot]

LOL, gf. They should legalize it.

[zezeye1]

yes i agree it is nice

[Shishir G]

Half the people replying to this thread saying legalize mary jane... have never seen it or smoked it, or even touched it at that point.
Their all just lil' kids tryin to be cool.
Some here i know do it, it seems like they do atleast.
Me, i don't, so i don't give a fuck what happens.

[Caelum]

Weed should be legalized... I smoke it myself, time to time... But I have autism(not the physical type) and my brain will calculate every possible thing I can and will do, weed slows that down and lets me relax and socialize. Many people find it relaxing, there are no directly related deaths to weed. Alcohol is worse if that is still legal weed should be to.

[David]

Here in the Netherlands drugs is already legalized. It saves a lot of trouble and accidents.

[Zykev2]

Half the people replying to this thread saying legalize mary jane... have never seen it or smoked it, or even touched it at that point.
Their all just lil' kids tryin to be cool.
Some here i know do it, it seems like they do atleast.
Me, i don't, so i don't give a fuck what happens.

Since when do you have to smoke it to be for legalization? I know plenty of people who don't smoke but would like it legalized.

[youtube2]

I support this thread

[bl00dshooter]

I support this thread

People like you shouldn't be in this section.

[Slik]

Here in the Netherlands drugs is already legalized. It saves a lot of trouble and accidents.

Not all drugs are legalized. You don't seem to know what you are talking about. 'Soft' drugs are legal while 'hard' drugs are illegal.

Only the registered members can see the link..%20%20Schedule%20I%20Drugs%20%E2%80%93%20H eroin,%20Cocaine%20and%20Amphetamines

[Evan]

Half the people replying to this thread saying legalize mary jane... have never seen it or smoked it, or even touched it at that point.
Their all just lil' kids tryin to be cool.
Some here i know do it, it seems like they do atleast.
Me, i don't, so i don't give a fuck what happens.Shut up,everyone smokes weed

[GoldAccounts]

Shut up,everyone smokes weed

I don't smoke weed. Drug free for life.

[Zykev2]

I don't smoke weed. Drug free for life.

I believe everyone should at least try Marijuana, you only have 1 life you might as well enjoy it and why not at least try something once that you know will not harm you in any way and make your time SO much better. Thats just my opinion.

[GoldAccounts]

I believe everyone should at least try Marijuana, you only have 1 life you might as well enjoy it and why not at least try something once that you know will not harm you in any way and make your time SO much better. Thats just my opinion.

Imagine if everyone shared your opinion. Our world would be in great danger.

[Aros]

How about the guy in the paper this morning, He got caught with £50,000($80,000) worth of drugs, and the judge let him walk free.

[Zykev2]

Imagine if everyone shared your opinion. Our world would be in great danger.


It won't harm you in any health aspects, I don't see how someone who has never smoked Marijuana can try and debate it to a person who has been smoking for over 7 years now. Anyways I'm up for a challenge Goldaccounts.

I'm looking forward to your introductory rebuttal.

[Rog3r]

I smoke it sometimes during lunch and still perform exactly the same in class. In-fact I could also argue that it allows you to be more focused thus more productive.

[Zykev2]

I smoke it sometimes during lunch and still perform exactly the same in class. In-fact I could also argue that it allows you to be more focused thus more productive.

True, people fail to realize that there isn't just, MARIJUANA. Marijuana comes in 2 different forms which are: Sativa and Indica. Indica's are grown to be very small usually max out at about 3-5 feet, Indica's are good for treating upper body ailments such as Neck and back pain, Migraines, Glaucoma, ect, These produce a high that I describe as a "One hitter quitter" which basically means after 1 bowl or so (of good indica cannabis) they produce a short (1-2 hour) moderate high and makes you tired I like to smoke these kind of strains when I'm going to bed. Sativa strains on the other hand (my favorite) can grow anywhere from 6-30+ feet in the air, they are uplifting this is your "Party" marijuana, Marijuana strains that are Sativa's (Which is what you probably smoke) are the ones for body and pain can treat disorders like ADD and ADHD, Arthritis, ect. The point I am trying to make is certain strains of Marijuana affect your high in certain ways for the better its not just 1 high, this is what makes Medical Marijuana practical for treating the hundreds of ailments that it can be prescribed for because you can actually determine what the high will be like based on the strain of seed and the way its grown to target certain ailments.

[Zykev2]

um to be honest it would help but not smart becuz idk lol just don''t smoke cancer lol

Oh god, please leave my thread this is the Intelligent Debate board. This is among the most ignorant posts I've ever seen on this board, and thats saying a lot.

[fr00zen]

YES YEA YEAH!
should be legalized i would love to go down to a covenant store and buy some weed.

[Slik]

Oh god, please leave my thread this is the Intelligent Debate board. This is among the most ignorant posts I've ever seen on this board, and thats saying a lot.

Just another troll, slowly and painfully killing this section. The funny thing is, idiots will see that post and agree due to ignorance.

[Megak]

Marijuana should definitely legalized, the only reason we don't legalize it, is because legalization would deflate the American economy greatly. Large corporations shouldn't be getting their way by influencing what can and can't be sold. That, my friends, is called a command economy

[winK]

Medical uses. Limited prescription, just like any drug. The fact remains that Ganja is still a mind-altering hallucinogenic and can have harmful AND helpful effects. Yes it should be legal, but it should be controlled. And there should be methods of use approved by doctors, etc.

Another problem that arises is the idea that the drug-world is preventing it from being legal. As talked about in documentaries like The Union.

Take note: I use it myself. Illegally.

[robbiesmith]

No country permits free use of marijuana. However, medical use of substances prepared with marijuana are legal, if provided by medical prescription. Denver became the first city in the nation to make the private use of marijuana legal for adults.

[badguys4u]

Come on and do it with your heart! Go go!

[Zykev2]

No country permits free use of marijuana. However, medical use of substances prepared with marijuana are legal, if provided by medical prescription. Denver became the first city in the nation to make the private use of marijuana legal for adults.

Depends on your definition of "free use."

[V is for Vendetta]

Medical uses. Limited prescription, just like any drug. The fact remains that Ganja is still a mind-altering hallucinogenic and can have harmful AND helpful effects. Yes it should be legal, but it should be controlled. And there should be methods of use approved by doctors, etc.

Another problem that arises is the idea that the drug-world is preventing it from being legal. As talked about in documentaries like The Union.

Take note: I use it myself. Illegally.

you said it should be legal, but controlled. No matter what you do if the drug is being made, you can't control it. People are going to abuse it no matter what.