Pro Paper for Marijuana

Sami Shalwani

Dr. Wiltse

ENGL 1302

6 October 2012

Decriminalizing Marijuana

There has been a very big controversial argument on the topic of whether the so-called “narcotic”, marijuana, should be legalized or not for several years now. Marijuana is rather different from actual narcotics and has a different and unique purpose. Marijuana is a greenish blend of the dried, frayed leaves, stems, seeds, and flowers of Cannabis sativa, or the hemp plant. It is a natural plant that can help the world in many ways. Legalization of marijuana could help millions in the treatment for several different health issues, save the United States billions of dollars while generating tax revenue in billions as well, and also reduce the drug crimes and violence currently taking place in the United States and Mexico due to the war on drugs. In order for marijuana to make a positive effect on the world, rather than the negative effect currently taking place, it must be decriminalized.

However, critics of decriminalizing marijuana say that marijuana should be treated just like other dangerous illegal substances, stating that the plant is a harmful and addictive drug, and must remain illegal. Non-supporters say that marijuana can lead to the use of more potent drugs, and have negative effects on one’s physical and psychological health. Conversely, there is more to the facts, and marijuana can have nothing but positive effects to one’s health.

Marijuana is determined to be a great source for treatment for a few health issues such as depression, Alzheimer’s disease, nausea, glaucoma, or any other type of pain. In results of several studies done, it is known that the main chemical in marijuana, THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, is known to help relieve pain or fight against nausea. “THC [tetrahydrocannabinol], the chemical in marijuana responsible for the high, can help slow the progress of Alzheimer's disease. Other studies have shown THC to be a very effective antinausea treatment for...