3 Arguments Why Marijuana Should Stay Illegal Reviewed

Summary

As marijuana continues to be legalized globally, its potential risks are often downplayed. This video explores three key arguments against legalization: the increasing potency of marijuana and its link to psychosis, the misconception that marijuana is a gateway drug to more dangerous substances, and the health risks associated with addiction and long-term use. Despite these concerns, the video argues that regulation, not prohibition, may offer a safer approach by reducing harm, increasing research, and preventing the black market's influence. The video calls for a balanced perspective on marijuana use, acknowledging both its risks and potential benefits.

Takeaways

• 😀 Marijuana has become significantly stronger over the years, with THC levels rising from around 4% in the 1990s to nearly 12% in 2014, increasing the risk of psychosis.
• 😀 The shift towards higher THC and lower CBD levels in marijuana has led to an increase in its potential to cause harm, as CBD is believed to counteract THC's psychoactive effects.
• 😀 Studies suggest that marijuana use can accelerate the development of psychosis in individuals already predisposed to mental health issues, rather than directly causing it.
• 😀 Legalizing marijuana could reduce the strength of marijuana consumed, as regulation could ensure safer, lower-potency options are available.
• 😀 Prohibition of marijuana has led to stronger, more potent products, similar to how alcohol became more concentrated during Prohibition in the US.
• 😀 Cigarettes, not marijuana, are a stronger gateway to harder drug use, with teens who start smoking early being more likely to try illegal drugs.
• 😀 Drug addiction is often linked to underlying factors such as early trauma, social status, and mental health, rather than simply the legal status of drugs.
• 😀 In Portugal, decriminalizing all drugs and focusing on health support services instead of criminal punishment led to a significant decrease in drug use, addiction, and overdose deaths.
• 😀 Marijuana addiction is primarily psychological, with about 10% of users developing an addiction, which has increased as THC potency has risen.
• 😀 While marijuana has some health risks, such as potential impacts on blood pressure and gum disease, its harm is not as severe as substances like alcohol and tobacco, which cause millions of deaths annually.
• 😀 Legalizing marijuana could allow for more research into its long-term effects and health risks, helping to better understand its potential dangers and benefits.

Q & A

What is the main concern regarding the increased potency of marijuana?

The increased potency of marijuana, due to higher THC levels and lower CBD, raises concerns about its potential to cause psychosis, especially for individuals already at risk. The stronger the marijuana, the higher the risk of mental health issues.

How has the ratio of THC to CBD changed in marijuana over the years?

In 1995, the THC to CBD ratio was 1:14. By 2014, it had shifted to 1:80, indicating a significant increase in THC content and a decrease in CBD levels, which may affect the drug's safety and mental health implications.

Does increased marijuana use correlate with more cases of schizophrenia or psychosis?

A study from Britain found that while marijuana use increased between 1996 and 2005, schizophrenia cases remained stable. It appears that marijuana may speed up the development of psychosis in those already at risk, rather than causing it in the general population.

What is the argument for making marijuana legal despite its risks?

Legalizing marijuana could reduce the potency of the drug by regulating it, allowing for safer, less harmful options. Legalization would also give regulators the ability to insist on higher levels of CBD, which might counteract the negative effects of THC.

Why is marijuana considered a gateway drug, and is this a valid concern?

While some studies suggest that marijuana use may lead to the use of harder drugs, research shows that cigarettes are the real gateway drug. People who start smoking before age 15 are significantly more likely to use illegal drugs, including marijuana.

How does drug addiction relate to social and psychological factors?

Addiction is often driven by a combination of social and psychological factors, such as trauma, depression, low social status, and genetic predisposition. The specific drug people become addicted to is often random, as they seek ways to cope with these underlying issues.

What was the result of Portugal's drug decriminalization in 2001?

Portugal's decision to decriminalize all drugs, paired with a focus on health services and harm reduction, led to a significant decrease in drug use, addiction, and related health issues like HIV and hepatitis. It demonstrates that a health-focused approach can be more effective than punitive measures.

Is marijuana addictive, and how does its addiction potential compare to other substances?

Marijuana is addictive, though its addiction is mainly psychological. Around 10% of users may develop a dependence. While it is less physically addictive than substances like alcohol or nicotine, it can still lead to harmful patterns of use.

What are some health risks associated with marijuana use?

Health risks of marijuana include potential lung issues, increased blood pressure, and a higher risk of gum disease. Studies also suggest that marijuana use could negatively affect the brain development of teenagers, but these results are still inconclusive.

How does the legalization of marijuana impact teen access compared to illegal markets?

Legalization typically makes it harder for teenagers to access marijuana, as official sellers face strict penalties for selling to minors. This creates a safer environment for young people compared to illegal markets, where age restrictions are not enforced.