Legalization of Marijuana

[SubStylee]

Vote.

http://www.alternet.org/drugs/60959/

[tkamB]

If you vote no then you are either ignorant or a hypocrite. Oh and no better than those Westboro Baptist people, you know imposing your morals on other people.

[Neo Cassady]

Legalized, regulated, and taxed. Gov't's missing out on a gold mine.

[slImChanCe]

i voted yes, but i saw a movie documentary where they said the gov't makes more money off pot being illegal than it being legal. i believe the movie was called The Union: The Business of Getting High

[Neo Cassady]

i voted yes, but i saw a movie documentary where they said the gov't makes more money off pot being illegal than it being legal.

Sure, through fines and bail money (and probably all sorts of "questionable" measures via the CIA, et al.). They probably made a bunch of dough during Prohibition too.

[tkamB]

i voted yes, but i saw a movie documentary where they said the gov't makes more money off pot being illegal than it being legal.

http://www.masschiefs.org/PDF/Budgetary%20Implications%20of%20Mar ijuana%20Prohibition%20in%20the%20U S.pdf

Report by Jeffrey Miron, who is currently teaching at Harvard, says that marijuana being illegal costs the government 7.7 billion dollars annually. I'd trust him over a documentary filmmaker.

Edit: And I'm sure any revenue pulled off of fines is far outweighed by the cost of incarcerating offenders.

[Debut_Fin]

If you vote no then you are either ignorant or a hypocrite. Oh and no better than those Westboro Baptist people, you know imposing your morals on other people.

I think it should be legal, but please don't compare people who disagree to those freaks

[jwicklun]

do not smoke weed, but yeah, it should be legalized.

[yellowhouse]

There is absolutely no reason why marijuana should be illegal.

[Toothache]

There is absolutely no reason why marijuana should be illegal.
agreed.

[Machu505]

Yes it should. But I'd advise against smoking anything.

[TravelingBySea]

Daniel Tosh is right:

I think we should legalize marijuana in this country, so potheads have nothing to talk about ever again. You are so annoying, nobody ever sees me taking this angle, but I do.. with force. Grow up and do coke like an adult!

[<*)))><]

I say leave it illegal because that is the way Jesus wants its.

[yellowhouse]

agreed.

Thank you!

[cristinaa]

I don't personally really enjoy it, but I don't see why not.

[domotime2]

it's impossible to say no to.

[SeanEBoy2686]

Legalized, regulated, and taxed. Gov't's missing out on a gold mine.

Exactly what I was going to say.

[flks511]

No it shouldn't. Legalizing marijuana will make all the "rebels" go on to something more dangerous and addicting, merely because it is no longer "daring" and "cool" to smoke weed anymore. Leave it illegal and let all the idiots think they're being cool, living on the edge.

[SubStylee]

No it shouldn't. Legalizing marijuana will make all the "rebels" go on to something more dangerous and addicting, merely because it is no longer "daring" and "cool" to smoke weed anymore. Leave it illegal and let all the idiots think they're being cool, living on the edge.

You're so conservative.

[flks511]

You're so conservative.
You're so funny.

[InvisibleImage]

If you vote no then you are either ignorant or a hypocrite. Oh and no better than those Westboro Baptist people, you know imposing your morals on other people.
not true. I voted no, I smoke weed and would rather not see the price of it skyrocket once it became legal. It's really not that bad having it illegal, some cops don't make it a big deal anymore.

[InvisibleImage]

Legalized, regulated, and taxed. Gov't's missing out on a gold mine.
which is exactly why I voted no.

[InvisibleImage]

No it shouldn't. Legalizing marijuana will make all the "rebels" go on to something more dangerous and addicting, merely because it is no longer "daring" and "cool" to smoke weed anymore. Leave it illegal and let all the idiots think they're being cool, living on the edge.
you are 17, and ignorant. It's people your age that smoke because they think it's "cool." I'd say about 95% of people smoke for other reasons than thinking it's cool.

[TangledUp]

If you vote no then you are either ignorant or a hypocrite. Oh and no better than those Westboro Baptist people, you know imposing your morals on other people.
That's a ridiculous thing to say. Actually, your entire comment sounded stupid. People are entitled to think pot shouldn't be legal. I voted yes, by the way.

[flks511]

1. you are 17, and ignorant. 2. It's people your age that smoke because they think it's "cool." 3. I'd say about 95% of people smoke for other reasons than thinking it's cool.
1. Telling me I'm wrong because of my age is ignorance.
2. Yeah, and if weed was legal, they'd be doing way more destructive drugs to try and look cool.
3. And so what difference does it make if it's legal or not to them? Weed being illegal isn't stopping them from smoking, so why legalize it?

[Machu505]

1. Telling me I'm wrong because of my age is ignorance.
2. Yeah, and if weed was legal, they'd be doing way more destructive drugs to try and look cool.
3. And so what difference does it make if it's legal or not to them? Weed being illegal isn't stopping them from smoking, so why legalize it?

1. True.
2. Slippery slope fallacy. You don't know that.
3. So we don't have to fill up our jails with nonviolent criminals.

[flks511]

1. True.
2. Slippery slope fallacy. You don't know that.
3. So we don't have to fill up our jails with nonviolent criminals.
Well think about it this way: if you were smoking weed to look cool because you're breaking the law, and then suddenly it's legalized, wouldn't you just move on to the next drug to continue looking cool?

People who smoke weed know what they're risking; don't try to justify it.

[InvisibleImage]

Well think about it this way: if you were smoking weed to look cool because you're breaking the law, and then suddenly it's legalized, wouldn't you just move on to the next drug to continue looking cool?

People who smoke weed know what they're risking; don't try to justify it.
no.

[Machu505]

Well think about it this way: if you were smoking weed to look cool because you're breaking the law, and then suddenly it's legalized, wouldn't you just move on to the next drug to continue looking cool?

People who smoke weed know what they're risking; don't try to justify it.

No. Everybody I know who smokes weed does it to relax.

[flks511]

no.
You're answering the question as yourself. Answer the question as a poser using drugs to gain street cred. And if you repeat "no," then you're a hypocrite for calling me ignorant.

[InvisibleImage]

You're answering the question as yourself. Answer the question as a poser using drugs to gain street cred. And if you repeat "no," then you're a hypocrite for calling me ignorant.
Seriously? Do you really think if people are trying to get "street cred," that they would choose to smoke weed instead of using harder drugs? give me a break. have you ever smoked?

[flks511]

Seriously? Do you really think if people are trying to get "street cred," that they would choose to smoke weed instead of using harder drugs? give me a break. have you ever smoked?
Yeah, I really do. I've known tons of people like that. Weed is the ultimate "street cred" drug because you don't have to worry about a physical addiction, hallucinations, etc. that come with harder drugs.

No, I don't smoke.

[InvisibleImage]

Yeah, I really do. I've known tons of people like that. Weed is the ultimate "street cred" drug because you don't have to worry about a physical addiction, hallucinations, etc. that come with harder drugs.

No, I don't smoke.
well that isn't very "risky and rebellious" is it?

[flks511]

well that isn't very "risky and rebellious" is it?
No, but it is very "illegal," which is a major appeal to someone trying to pose as a bad-ass.

[InvisibleImage]

No, but it is very "illegal," which is a major appeal to someone trying to pose as a bad-ass.
cigarettes aren't illegal but people smoke them "because they think they're cool." I don't think the legalization of marijuana will change the outlook of it to those people.

[tkamB]

not true. I voted no, I smoke weed and would rather not see the price of it skyrocket once it became legal. It's really not that bad having it illegal, some cops don't make it a big deal anymore.

Say that to the "33,655 state inmates and 10,785 federal inmates behind bars for marijuana offenses" http://www.alternet.org/rights/47815/ And the price won't skyrocket, economists predict a "decrease in the price of cannabis due to removal of risks associated with growing during prohibition."

That's a ridiculous thing to say. Actually, your entire comment sounded stupid. People are entitled to think pot shouldn't be legal. I voted yes, by the way.

I didn't say people aren't entitled to think it shouldn't be legal, I said if that is their opinion on the matter then it is out of hypocrisy or ignorance. I have yet to hear one argument against marijuana legalization that is reasonable and not completely hypocritical. Can you think of one?

[tkamB]

No, but it is very "illegal," which is a major appeal to someone trying to pose as a bad-ass.

First of all, some people might try weed to look cool, but they don't continue use to still look cool. If you've smoked before you would understand that. And finally the real reason kids move onto "hardcore" drugs is because they are dealing with drug dealers already and drug dealers tend to have harder drugs on them. If kids didn't have to go through drug dealers and just went through older friends/parents and such then they would have a harder time accessing the harder drugs which would decrease hard drug use among minors. So for you it would be a win-win because the people who smoke weed to "look cool" would stop because they wouldn't look as cool and they would have a more difficult time getting the harder drugs that would make them "look cool."

[flks511]

cigarettes aren't illegal but people smoke them "because they think they're cool." I don't think the legalization of marijuana will change the outlook of it to those people.
There is a big difference between weed and cigs, and you know that. You don't see people pulling joints out of their pocket and lighting them up in crowded areas like it's nothing.

[WhoSaidThat?]

Absolutely.

If you voted no, there's a decent chance I hate you.

[stevenisfading]

No.

[xjulianx89]

No.

[InvisibleImage]

There is a big difference between weed and cigs, and you know that. You don't see people pulling joints out of their pocket and lighting them up in crowded areas like it's nothing.
uh yea I do actually.

[domotime2]

No.
why

why

[vincent182]

It has been legal for over years now in my country and it works just fine. You will have less trouble with a mellowed stoner than with a drunk drinker. (Says someone who doesn't smoke...)

[recall reality]

1. Telling me I'm wrong because of my age is ignorance.
2. Yeah, and if weed was legal, they'd be doing way more destructive drugs to try and look cool.
3. And so what difference does it make if it's legal or not to them? Weed being illegal isn't stopping them from smoking, so why legalize it?

For starters, watch this film...

-9077214414651731007#

It not only addresses what's wrong with your second point, but quite clearly lays out multiple reasons why legalizing it would be beneficial. It's also a pretty interesting film in its own right, so give it shot.

[cuzimlefthanded]

Yes it should. But I'd advise against smoking anything.
Vaporizers get you way more fucked up anyways.
do not smoke weed, but yeah, it should be legalized.

I don't personally really enjoy it, but I don't see why not.
I appreciate your guys' sentiments, I really do. Wish more people thought that way.
No it shouldn't. Legalizing marijuana will make all the "rebels" go on to something more dangerous and addicting, merely because it is no longer "daring" and "cool" to smoke weed anymore. Leave it illegal and let all the idiots think they're being cool, living on the edge.
There's so much wrong with this statement.
1. Telling me I'm wrong because of my age is ignorance.
2. Yeah, and if weed was legal, they'd be doing way more destructive drugs to try and look cool.
3. And so what difference does it make if it's legal or not to them? Weed being illegal isn't stopping them from smoking, so why legalize it?
2. No.
3. So that prisons would no longer be overflowing with people incarcerated for possession of weed (which in turn costs the state a ton of money each year). Also, it would allow the police force to focus their aims at targeting individuals who are actual dangers to society.

[cuzimlefthanded]

Yeah, I really do. I've known tons of people like that. Weed is the ultimate "street cred" drug because you don't have to worry about a physical addiction, hallucinations, etc. that come with harder drugs.

No, I don't smoke.

I would say that alcohol--if anything--is what our society turns to when searching for validation and "street cred". People constantly brag about how much they've had to drink; the more you've had, the more "bad-ass" you are.

Your argument is based completely off of the hypothetical situation of people smoking in order to attain "street cred". Also, it's an argument that fails to apply to the main group of weed consumers.

[cuzimlefthanded]

It has been legal for over years now in my country and it works just fine. You will have less trouble with a mellowed stoner than with a drunk drinker. (Says someone who doesn't smoke...)

Haha best post in this thread yet. And to add on to this, there are cases everyday of people getting alcohol poisoning from over drinking; yet there has never been a documented case of someone smoking (weed that is) themselves to death.

[TangledUp]

I didn't say people aren't entitled to think it shouldn't be legal, I said if that is their opinion on the matter then it is out of hypocrisy or ignorance. I have yet to hear one argument against marijuana legalization that is reasonable and not completely hypocritical. Can you think of one?

Thought I saw one in this thread. Someone said they didn't want prices of marijuana to skyrocket. Seems reasonable to me.

[cristinaa]

It has been legal for over years now in my country and it works just fine. You will have less trouble with a mellowed stoner than with a drunk drinker


Haha best post in this thread yet. And to add on to this, there are cases everyday of people getting alcohol poisoning from over drinking; yet there has never been a documented case of someone smoking (weed that is) themselves to death.


Yea, drinking definitely causes way more destructive behavior and is more dangerous in general. If drinking is legal, it should in no way be illegal.

[flks511]

uh yea I do actually.
Well I guess I can't argue that, but nevertheless, I've never heard people talking about cigarettes like they're bad-ass ("Dude, yesterday I smoked SOOOOOO many cigs. It was sick, bro!"). But if I had a nickel for every time I heard a person bragging about how high they got over the weekend, I'd be rich.

[flks511]

There's so much wrong with this statement.

2. No.
3. So that prisons would no longer be overflowing with people incarcerated for possession of weed (which in turn costs the state a ton of money each year). Also, it would allow the police force to focus their aims at targeting individuals who are actual dangers to society.
So don't get caught. People who sell know what they're getting into, it's not like they're unfairly thrown into jail without warning.

[flks511]

I would say that alcohol--if anything--is what our society turns to when searching for validation and "street cred". People constantly brag about how much they've had to drink; the more you've had, the more "bad-ass" you are.

Your argument is based completely off of the hypothetical situation of people smoking in order to attain "street cred". Also, it's an argument that fails to apply to the main group of weed consumers.
1. So what's your point?

2. Who's stopping them? Continue to break the law, I don't give a shit. I'm pretty sure most people who smoke weed are content with the situation now, where they don't have to pay up the ass for it.

[Brokenhill]

Only if it replaces tobacco products.

[Chalie22]

No, I don't want people to be more stupid in this world

[cuzimlefthanded]

So don't get caught. People who sell know what they're getting into, it's not like they're unfairly thrown into jail without warning.
You're missing the point that I--and numerous other posters--are making. We're saying that the entire concept of weed being an illegal substance is ridiculous, as the product itself is virtually harmless if taken properly (vaporizer). All the prohibition of weed serves to do is fill up prisons and waste more federal/state money.
1. So what's your point?

2. Who's stopping them? Continue to break the law, I don't give a shit. I'm pretty sure most people who smoke weed are content with the situation now, where they don't have to pay up the ass for it.
1. Point is, your hypothetical argument can also be applied to alcohol consumption. Based off of your argument, alcohol consumption should be prohibited as well.

2. I smoke weed. I would much rather it be a legalized/taxed product. The taxation would help my state's terrible economy, and I wouldn't have to worry about participating in something that is far less harmful than both alcohol and nicotine consumption.
No, I don't want people to be more stupid in this world
So should we bring back Prohibition while we're at it too?

[cuzimlefthanded]

Yea, drinking definitely causes way more destructive behavior and is more dangerous in general. If drinking is legal, it should in no way be illegal.

Haha this last sentence confused me for a bit. Then I realized the "it" was in reference to weed, not alcohol. Made complete sense after that.

[tkamB]

Thought I saw one in this thread. Someone said they didn't want prices of marijuana to skyrocket. Seems reasonable to me.

Already replied to that as economists say prices will decrease due to removal of risks associated with growing during prohibition. Like when alcohol was made illegal prices went up 75%. Although it is mostly speculation and depends on how much its taxed and regulated, but it seems likely to fall since supply would increase probably faster than demand. It would also likely be legal to grow, which could = (basically) free weed.

[tkamB]

There is a big difference between weed and cigs, and you know that. You don't see people pulling joints out of their pocket and lighting them up in crowded areas like it's nothing.

have you EVER been to a concert? rofl And yeah there is a big difference weed doesn't kill you. Compared to cigarettes which are responsible for about 1 in 5 deaths per year. Which one is legal again?

[flks511]

have you EVER been to a concert? rofl And yeah there is a big difference weed doesn't kill you. Compared to cigarettes which are responsible for about 1 in 5 deaths per year. Which one is legal again?
So if people already smoke weed like it's nothing, it obviously doesn't make a difference whether it's legal or not, so it doesn't need to be legalized.

[jbaseball44]

No it shouldn't. Legalizing marijuana will make all the "rebels" go on to something more dangerous and addicting, merely because it is no longer "daring" and "cool" to smoke weed anymore. Leave it illegal and let all the idiots think they're being cool, living on the edge.
Never heard a single person in my life describe smoking weed as 'daring'

As was already said, legalize it, regulate it and tax it.

[tkamB]

So if people already smoke weed like it's nothing, it obviously doesn't make a difference whether it's legal or not, so it doesn't need to be legalized.

So what about the 33,655 state inmates and 10,785 federal inmates behind bars for marijuana offenses? What about the 12.9 billion dollars saved annually from not having to enforce prohibition? What about the 6.7 billion dollars raised annually from taxing marijuana? If it doesn't make a difference then why do you think it should STAY illegal? Why not make money off of it to help society as a whole?

[cristinaa]

Haha this last sentence confused me for a bit. Then I realized the "it" was in reference to weed, not alcohol. Made complete sense after that.

Haha yea, I definitely did not word that very clearly.

[jwicklun]

To people who voted no: there has not been a single case of somebody overdosing on weed. It's not my cup of tea, but this whole thing that "weed will ruin your life" is bullshit. I have friends who are stoners who have accomplished more than me, and I am drug free. Sure, it might make you lazy, but more power to them. Cocaine will ruin possibly ruin your life. Heroin and crack probably will too. But weed...no. That is all.

[flks511]

So what about the 33,655 state inmates and 10,785 federal inmates behind bars for marijuana offenses? What about the 12.9 billion dollars saved annually from not having to enforce prohibition? What about the 6.7 billion dollars raised annually from taxing marijuana? If it doesn't make a difference then why do you think it should STAY illegal? Why not make money off of it to help society as a whole?
You mean the people who used and sold drugs knowing full well what would happen if they got caught? Legalizing one drug justifies drug use, which will lead more people to believe it is okay to use harder drugs.

[flks511]

To people who voted no: there has not been a single case of somebody overdosing on weed. It's not my cup of tea, but this whole thing that "weed will ruin your life" is bullshit. I have friends who are stoners who have accomplished more than me, and I am drug free. Sure, it might make you lazy, but more power to them. Cocaine will ruin possibly ruin your life. Heroin and crack probably will too. But weed...no. That is all.
Ever hear the expression "gateway drug?"

[jwicklun]

Ever hear the expression "gateway drug?"
yeah, everyone that smokes weed has the sudden desire to find harder drugs. This whole slippery slope stunt is stupid.

[cuzimlefthanded]

Ever hear the expression "gateway drug?"

Yes. Weed is not one of them. Numerous studies conducted by universities all of the states have found that weed does not act as a gateway drug.

[cuzimlefthanded]

yeah, everyone that smokes weed has the sudden desire to find harder drugs. This whole slippery slope stunt is stupid.

This guy is failing so hard with his arguments. He just keeps saying the same things over and over, despite having been proven wrong on numerous occasions throughout the thread.

[jwicklun]

This guy is failing so hard with his arguments. He just keeps saying the same things over and over, despite having been proven wrong on numerous occasions throughout the thread.
I mean beer can be a gateway to alcoholism? that means that should be banned! it leads to harder and more dangerous alcohol!

[cuzimlefthanded]

To people who voted no: there has not been a single case of somebody overdosing on weed. It's not my cup of tea, but this whole thing that "weed will ruin your life" is bullshit. I have friends who are stoners who have accomplished more than me, and I am drug free. Sure, it might make you lazy, but more power to them. Cocaine will ruin possibly ruin your life. Heroin and crack probably will too. But weed...no. That is all.
This.
Now, alcohol overdose? You hear about it all. Shit, there are even cases of nicotine overdose. NOTHING after weed.

[tkamB]

You mean the people who used and sold drugs knowing full well what would happen if they got caught? Legalizing one drug justifies drug use, which will lead more people to believe it is okay to use harder drugs.

Yes those that were put into jail for an unjust law that was put in place by falsified evidence.Alcohol is a drug, nicotine is a drug, caffeine is a drug, yet not everyone thinks harder drugs are okay. And you're speaking completely on speculation with no evidence what so ever for people you've never meant nor have you ever been in their mindset. No one is going to think "if marijuana is okay I might as well try meth!" that is just ridiculous. People are a lot smarter than you give them credit for and should be allowed to make their own choices without someone like you telling them they can't.

[recall reality]

Ever hear the expression "gateway drug?"

The only way in which it is a "gateway drug" has to do with it being illegal. When one has to get it from a drug dealer they're more susceptible to be exposed to and, in turn, try harder drugs. Essentially, the black market blends "hard" and "soft" drugs. There's certainly no psychopharmacological reason and your slippery slope argument is nonsensical.

[Neo Cassady]

Ever hear the expression "gateway drug?"

Sure, if you buy pot laced with coke.

[flks511]

yeah, everyone that smokes weed has the sudden desire to find harder drugs. This whole slippery slope stunt is stupid.
Oh my god. Anyone who smokes weed knows that there is a significant difference between the politically correct view of marijuana and their own views. They'll apply that distrust in the general public opinion to the use of harder drugs.
Yes. Weed is not one of them. Numerous studies conducted by universities all of the states have found that weed does not act as a gateway drug.
Come on, that's weak. Obviously, people who use marijuana are associated with other drug users, and trust those who sell and use more dangerous, destructive drugs.
1. Yes those that were put into jail for an unjust law that was put in place by falsified evidence.2. Alcohol is a drug, nicotine is a drug, caffeine is a drug, yet not everyone thinks harder drugs are okay. And 3.you're speaking completely on speculation with no evidence what so ever for people you've never meant nor have you ever been in their mindset. 4. No one is going to think "if marijuana is okay I might as well try meth!" that is just ridiculous. 5. People are a lot smarter than you give them credit for and 6. should be allowed to make their own choices without someone like you telling them they can't.
1. We're already in an argument about whether the law is just or not. Your argument here is, "The law is unjust because it puts many people in jail who are not violent." I reply that these people know what the consequences of their actions might be. Your response: "Well, the law is unjust." Circular reasoning.

2. You named the most easily obtainable drugs. Users of harder drugs tend to use weed and alcohol as well.

3. This....

4. ...contradicts this.

5. Thin ice, dude.

6. Who's stopping them from smoking?

7. This conversation is over. Everyone is just repeating themselves. The system we have is fine, the only people unhappy with it are the ones complaining about the drug users in jail stunned that they have to pay the consequence of breaking the law. Anyways, I'm out of here before more potheads come in to defend their drug.

[jwicklun]

Oh my god. Anyone who smokes weed knows that there is a significant difference between the politically correct view of marijuana and their own views. They'll apply that distrust in the general public opinion to the use of harder drugs.

Come on, that's weak. Obviously, people who use marijuana are associated with other drug users, and trust those who sell and use more dangerous, destructive drugs.

1. We're already in an argument about whether the law is just or not. Your argument here is, "The law is unjust because it puts many people in jail who are not violent." I reply that these people know what the consequences of their actions might be. Your response: "Well, the law is unjust." Circular reasoning.

2. You named the most easily obtainable drugs. Users of harder drugs tend to use weed and alcohol as well.

3. This....

4. ...contradicts this.

5. Thin ice, dude.

6. Who's stopping them from smoking?

7. This conversation is over. Everyone is just repeating themselves. The system we have is fine, the only people unhappy with it are the ones complaining about the drug users in jail stunned that they have to pay the consequence of breaking the law. Anyways, I'm out of here before more potheads come in to defend their drug.
I do not smoke weed. I have smoked twice, and no, I have absolute zero desire to continue smoking or seek out anyother drugs. The problem is that you are the one who is making the generalizations. It's almost as if you have been getting your information from a saturday morning cartoon that is preaching nondrug use. There is no harm to smoking weed. It is something that should be frowned upon, but that does not mean it should be illegal. Now get you're head out of your ass, and stop preaching this "weed is the center of all evils" bullshit. You have no idea what you are talking about, and stop your dumbass generalizations.

[cuzimlefthanded]

Oh my god. Anyone who smokes weed knows that there is a significant difference between the politically correct view of marijuana and their own views. They'll apply that distrust in the general public opinion to the use of harder drugs.

Come on, that's weak. Obviously, people who use marijuana are associated with other drug users, and trust those who sell and use more dangerous, destructive drugs.

1. We're already in an argument about whether the law is just or not. Your argument here is, "The law is unjust because it puts many people in jail who are not violent." I reply that these people know what the consequences of their actions might be. Your response: "Well, the law is unjust." Circular reasoning.

2. You named the most easily obtainable drugs. Users of harder drugs tend to use weed and alcohol as well.

3. This....

4. ...contradicts this.

5. Thin ice, dude.

6. Who's stopping them from smoking?

7. This conversation is over. Everyone is just repeating themselves. The system we have is fine, the only people unhappy with it are the ones complaining about the drug users in jail stunned that they have to pay the consequence of breaking the law. Anyways, I'm out of here before more potheads come in to defend their drug.

Pre-1:So you're just going to completely disregard years of studies conducted by universities worldwide....? In favor of a self-constructed generalization regarding pot smokers? Think about it.

2: No one's talking about the correlation between alcohol and weed. We're bringing up these questions: Your argument revolves around the concept of weed acting as a gateway to drug addiction. If for those reasons weed should be illegal, shouldn't alcohol and cigarettes be prohibited as well? Seeing as they respectively act as gateways for alcoholism and mind-numbing addiction/lung cancer .

[cuzimlefthanded]

I do not smoke weed. I have smoked twice, and no, I have absolute zero desire to continue smoking or seek out anyother drugs. The problem is that you are the one who is making the generalizations. It's almost as if you have been getting your information from a saturday morning cartoon that is preaching nondrug use. There is no harm to smoking weed. It is something that should be frowned upon, but that does not mean it should be illegal. Now get you're head out of your ass, and stop preaching this "weed is the center of all evils" bullshit. You have no idea what you are talking about, and stop your dumbass generalizations.
Yeahhh man. We all know that women are ;-)

[jwicklun]

Yeahhh man. We all know that women are ;-)
amen brother. (bro chestpump)

[jwicklun]

my god, that kid was a dumbass.

[cuzimlefthanded]

Yeah...those fuckin' teenagers ;-)

[Nourez]

I don't smoke and I still think it should be legalized.

[tkamB]

Oh my god. Anyone who smokes weed knows that there is a significant difference between the politically correct view of marijuana and their own views. They'll apply that distrust in the general public opinion to the use of harder drugs.

Come on, that's weak. Obviously, people who use marijuana are associated with other drug users, and trust those who sell and use more dangerous, destructive drugs.

1. We're already in an argument about whether the law is just or not. Your argument here is, "The law is unjust because it puts many people in jail who are not violent." I reply that these people know what the consequences of their actions might be. Your response: "Well, the law is unjust." Circular reasoning.

2. You named the most easily obtainable drugs. Users of harder drugs tend to use weed and alcohol as well.

3. This....

4. ...contradicts this.

5. Thin ice, dude.

6. Who's stopping them from smoking?

7. This conversation is over. Everyone is just repeating themselves. The system we have is fine, the only people unhappy with it are the ones complaining about the drug users in jail stunned that they have to pay the consequence of breaking the law. Anyways, I'm out of here before more potheads come in to defend their drug.

1. My argument isn't that it puts non violent users in jail, my argument is that by it being legal it will benefit the country financially by tapping in to an already billion dollar industry. It will create hundreds of thousands of jobs and generate billions of dollars in tax revenue all while cutting down on billions of dollars in expenditures used to incarcerate offenders. Not to mention reducing the gateway effect, making it harder for those underage to get weed, and practically eliminating funding for gangs which could reduce crime (I can provide sources for each and every point if you want). Your argument, apparently, is that people can get it already and it might(it won't) lead to harder drugs use. Smart stuff right there.

2. You do realize that the gateway effect isn't because of weed it is because of weed being illegal. If people who wanted to smoke weed didn't have to go through drug dealers, who tend to carry other drugs on them, then there would be a significantly less effect.

3 and 4. No it doesn't, because I am one of those people and therefore in the right mindset to make a statement such as that. You don't use therefore you have no idea what goes through the head of someone who does.

5. Sorry that I have faith in people's judgements, and if people aren't smart enough maybe we can use those billions of dollars made annually by the legalization/regulation of marijuana and put it into education.

6. Is that even a question? Try the state and federal government

7. Alright run away from the debate, but as a favor if you want to come back and debate at least inform yourself on the issue and at least bring facts to back up your stance and stop relying on your own speculation and opinion. But it doesn't matter because I can guarantee you you will try it once and then realize how wrong you are, happens to everyone. Including me.

[Chalie22]

In this thread: 17 and 18 year olds stoked about weed

Makes sense to me!

[jbaseball44]

In this thread: 17 & 18 year olds talking about the financial reasons as to why legalizing weed is the a good idea.

Makes sense to anyone (or should)

[spansen]

i voted yes, and i don't smoke.

it has its benefits.. but it also effects someone's judgment. if used under controlled circumstances, than it wouldn't be a problem. it's safer than tobacco or alcohol.

[SuNDaYSTaR]

Daniel Tosh is right:

I think we should legalize marijuana in this country, so potheads have nothing to talk about ever again. You are so annoying, nobody ever sees me taking this angle, but I do.. with force. Grow up and do coke like an adult!

This.

[kbi the crowing]

It should be decriminalized, not legal.

[SubStylee]

I do not smoke weed. I have smoked twice, and no, I have absolute zero desire to continue smoking or seek out anyother drugs. The problem is that you are the one who is making the generalizations. It's almost as if you have been getting your information from a saturday morning cartoon that is preaching nondrug use. There is no harm to smoking weed. It is something that should be frowned upon, but that does not mean it should be illegal. Now get you're head out of your ass, and stop preaching this "weed is the center of all evils" bullshit. You have no idea what you are talking about, and stop your dumbass generalizations.

:thumbup:

[Rustash]

No. But then again i thing cigs and alcohol should also be illegal, call me conservative, i don't care. I have my reasons and i'm fine with that.

[tkamB]

It should be decriminalized, not legal.

Why? So that drug dealers and gangs keep the profits from marijuana consumption? Shouldn't society be the one getting the benefits? Decriminalization makes zero sense.

[kbi the crowing]

Why? So that drug dealers and gangs keep the profits from marijuana consumption? Shouldn't society be the one getting the benefits? Decriminalization makes zero sense.

1. I'd rather not have the price of weed sky rocket and become less potent.
2. I doubt society would really get any benefit from taxes on weed, but I suppose it's possible.
3. Drug dealers are often dumb with extra money and make impulse purchases which can help the economy.

However I didn't take into account gangs. Good point on your part.

[Angel Jin]

legalize it and move on.

[TinMan20]

"its the bees, knees outta 9!"

LEGAL ASAP.

[Loyaltabk]

10000000000000000000000000000000000 0 times YES

[jjjkman]

1. Telling me I'm wrong because of my age is ignorance.
2. Yeah, and if weed was legal, they'd be doing way more destructive drugs to try and look cool.
3. And so what difference does it make if it's legal or not to them? Weed being illegal isn't stopping them from smoking, so why legalize it?

1. True, but your ignorance is greater than his.
2. If someone is stupid enough to do a drug just to "be cool" the will get what they deserve if they move on to more destructive things. I highly doubt that would happen though
3. American jails are way over crowded. A larger amount of our population is in jail than most other country's. We don't need people in jail for a stupid reason smoking weed. That's why.

[Yellowcard2006]

It you ain't got no job and you ain't smokin weed....I have no idea what you are doing with your life- Katt Williams

Also I voted no, because honestly I don't care either way.

[Jennurna Gray]

Yes it should. But I'd advise against smoking anything.
Ironic, looking at your post compared to your avatar.

[SubStylee]

1. Telling me I'm wrong because of my age is ignorance.
2. Yeah, and if weed was legal, they'd be doing way more destructive drugs to try and look cool.
3. And so what difference does it make if it's legal or not to them? Weed being illegal isn't stopping them from smoking, so why legalize it?

Main reason: DESTROY the black market
Buy weed in a much more civilized way!

[xapplexpiex]

I don't smoke it, and proly never will, but I still think it should be legalized.

[ShimmerAndSpill]

Legalize it for sure, although it pretty much feels legal in Tallahassee sometimes.

[Numero10]

I don't smoke weed but it only makes sense to legalize it, it will generate huge money for the economy and I heard somewhere (correct me if I'm wrong) that pot does less damage than alcohol.

And it would eliminate crimes over weed

[sleepyseanzzz]

yes so potheads will have nothing to talk about

[paidtomakegirls]

If you vote no then you are either ignorant or a hypocrite. Oh and no better than those Westboro Baptist people, you know imposing your morals on other people.

I voted no and I'm neither ignorant nor hyprocritical. I smoke everyday and don't want it legalized because then it'll be more expensive. Government gets a hold of it, taxes the shit out of it, fuck that. I'll take my illegal sack, evade the law, and continue to enjoy it without all the formal, legal, bullshit.

[SubStylee]

I don't smoke weed but it only makes sense to legalize it, it will generate huge money for the economy and I heard somewhere (correct me if I'm wrong) that pot does less damage than alcohol.

And it would eliminate crimes over weed

There was a research that proved that smoking one ciggarete while drinking a beer is more harmful than smoking one joint.

[Dicebox]

For starters, watch this film...

-9077214414651731007#

It not only addresses what's wrong with your second point, but quite clearly lays out multiple reasons why legalizing it would be beneficial. It's also a pretty interesting film in its own right, so give it shot.
Thanks for this. definitely changed my perspective on it.

[Machu505]

Ironic, looking at your post compared to your avatar.
*unless it contributes to great movie scenes

[Poe-tryGirl]

Yes and tax it at 100%.

[Jennurna Gray]

*unless it contributes to great movie scenes
Much better.

[tkamB]

1. I'd rather not have the price of weed sky rocket and become less potent.
2. I doubt society would really get any benefit from taxes on weed, but I suppose it's possible.
3. Drug dealers are often dumb with extra money and make impulse purchases which can help the economy.

However I didn't take into account gangs. Good point on your part.

1. See below other quote
2. It would. Think of all the legal jobs that would be created when you factor in production and distribution and the taxes off those jobs. Plus the saving of the 10.6 billion dollars spent every year to incarcerate marijuana offenses. It would benefit society a lot, were talking about overnight having a, legal, billion dollar industry put into the marketplace.
3. True, but it won't have near the impact if it were legal.

I voted no and I'm neither ignorant nor hyprocritical. I smoke everyday and don't want it legalized because then it'll be more expensive. Government gets a hold of it, taxes the shit out of it, fuck that. I'll take my illegal sack, evade the law, and continue to enjoy it without all the formal, legal, bullshit.

I don't know why people think the prices will skyrocket. If anything they will lower. I know a couple of growers and they make a ridiculous amount of profit in just 3 months of work. you don't think a ton of people are going to try to cash in on it? Obviously it depends on how they will regulate growers, but if its legal, the price will fall because the profit margin growers are making is so great that it will cause a ton of people to come into the market thus increasing supply and lowering prices. And if it will be taxed like alcohol, which is likely, the federal tax on a 12 oz can of beer is... 5 cents so I wouldn't worry about the taxes.

[kbi the crowing]

I don't know why people think the prices will skyrocket. If anything they will lower. I know a couple of growers and they make a ridiculous amount of profit in just 3 months of work. you don't think a ton of people are going to try to cash in on it? Obviously it depends on how they will regulate growers, but if its legal, the price will fall because the profit margin growers are making is so great that it will cause a ton of people to come into the market thus increasing supply and lowering prices. And if it will be taxed like alcohol, which is likely, the federal tax on a 12 oz can of beer is... 5 cents so I wouldn't worry about the taxes.

that makes sense, but I feel like the cheaper weed would most likely be the shitty quality weed.

2. It would. Think of all the legal jobs that would be created when you factor in production and distribution and the taxes off those jobs. Plus the saving of the 10.6 billion dollars spent every year to incarcerate marijuana offenses. It would benefit society a lot, were talking about overnight having a, legal, billion dollar industry put into the marketplace.
decriminalization would prevent that

3. True, but it won't have near the impact if it were legal.
maybe not but the other trade offs aren't as beneficial in my eyes

[tkamB]

that makes sense, but I feel like the cheaper weed would most likely be the shitty quality weed.


decriminalization would prevent that


maybe not but the other trade offs aren't as beneficial in my eyes

1. I think on average weed will be better quality, because knowledge on how to grow and harvest correctly will be more available and it will be easier to acquire the best strains but you're right I could see the higher quality bud drop a bit in terms of quality because that is mostly indoor grown and I could easily see why when legal people move their shit outside, but high quality indoor will always be available and you could always grow it yourself. Plus, I'm sure the price increase wouldn't be ridiculous.
2 and 3. Yes decriminalization would bring savings, but it wouldn't bring revenue or create jobs which are needed in this economy (10.4% unemployment).

[Numero10]

There was a research that proved that smoking one ciggarete while drinking a beer is more harmful than smoking one joint.

Well there you go.

[kbi the crowing]

1. I think on average weed will be better quality, because knowledge on how to grow and harvest correctly will be more available and it will be easier to acquire the best strains but you're right I could see the higher quality bud drop a bit in terms of quality because that is mostly indoor grown and I could easily see why when legal people move their shit outside, but high quality indoor will always be available and you could always grow it yourself. Plus, I'm sure the price increase wouldn't be ridiculous.
2 and 3. Yes decriminalization would bring savings, but it wouldn't bring revenue or create jobs which are needed in this economy (10.4% unemployment).

Yeah, legalizing and regulating it would definitely be more beneficial on an economical and national level. It's really hard to tell how it would effect the users until some sort of system was actually implemented.

[drawndead]

No. Because I couldn't afford it if it was taxed

[Tristan Needler]

I doubt it would be more expensive if it was legal. It would be able to be cheaper since it could be produced on a much larger scale locally. But the government would tax it to bring it back up to the current price, or maybe still less than it is now.. I don't see why it would be more expensive.

[drawndead]

I think the only way it would be legalized is if the government could tax it. I had to quit smoking when I lived in NY because packs went from $5 to about $9 within a month because they put a new tax law in effect.

[roche]

There is a big difference between weed and cigs, and you know that. You don't see people pulling joints out of their pocket and lighting them up in crowded areas like it's nothing.

Clearly you've never been to Vancouver.

[writeacliche]

Legalize that shit and smoke weed every day!

We Americans need more reasons to get fat and lazy.

My reasoning falls directly in line with Rons, from Parks and Recreation, with the following quote:

Ron: The whole point of this country is if you want to eat garbage, balloon up to 600 pounds and die of a heart attack at 43, you can! You are free to do so. To me, that’s beautiful.


On the other hand I work in a legit hydroponics shop and I deal with 20+ dumb fuckin potheads every day who come in the place reeking of ass, completely thugged out, and incapable of doing anything but asking me to "sell them the good shit to grow....tomatoes...with."

[Scrandon]

I voted no and I'm neither ignorant nor hyprocritical. I smoke everyday and don't want it legalized because then it'll be more expensive. Government gets a hold of it, taxes the shit out of it, fuck that. I'll take my illegal sack, evade the law, and continue to enjoy it without all the formal, legal, bullshit.

The only reason weed costs so much now is because of smuggling costs. They could keep the price the same and make a lot of money if it was legal. You're incredibly ignorant.

[JayBee420]

Weed is destroying this country. IT SHOULD ALL BE BURNED! In my dutches. lol.

[Dicebox]

I don't understand how this would make weed more expensive by legalizing it. Even if legal weed was more expensive, couldn't you just get it regularly from the dealers you currently go to? So when marijuana becomes legal in CA, how will it be able to initially meet the demand of users? That's a lot of weed to grow, think they would just start by buying weed from current dealers? ha

[ClydeMcAllister]

i voted yes, but i saw a movie documentary where they said the gov't makes more money off pot being illegal than it being legal. i believe the movie was called The Union: The Business of Getting High

The government may not necessarily make money, but companies that make drug testing products definately do, as well as privately owned prisons. The ones who make the most money are the drug dealers, who probably don't want to see it legalized, haha.

In no way should this stuff be illegal.
How many people die per year smoking cigarettes? How many people are killed by drunk drivers? How many die from weed?
It's absurd that these two drugs (and that's what they are) are legal and weed is not.

[joeyjoey]

In this thread: 17 and 18 year olds stoked about weed

Makes sense to me!
In this thread: a 23 year old pointlessly posting in a thread about marijuana legalization.

Doesn't make sense to me.

[paidtomakegirls]

The only reason weed costs so much now is because of smuggling costs. They could keep the price the same and make a lot of money if it was legal. You're incredibly ignorant.

Smuggling costs? No, you're ignorant. I buy weed thats grown and sold in California. I don't think weed costs that much right now, but trust me, the government does not want to be responsible for legally selling drugs at a cheaper price. The price could stay the same or up, but no way its going down. The government is not that broke that they're going to sell weed cheaply and promote usage.

[Scrandon]

Smuggling costs? No, you're ignorant. I buy weed thats grown and sold in California. I don't think weed costs that much right now, but trust me, the government does not want to be responsible for legally selling drugs at a cheaper price. The price could stay the same or up, but no way its going down. The government is not that broke that they're going to sell weed cheaply and promote usage.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_(drug)#Price

Most of the money is spent not on growing and producing but on smuggling the supply to buyers.

And I didn't say they would lower the price, I said they could keep it the same and make a lot of money.

[Dicebox]

Smuggling costs? No, you're ignorant. I buy weed thats grown and sold in California. I don't think weed costs that much right now, but trust me, the government does not want to be responsible for legally selling drugs at a cheaper price. The price could stay the same or up, but no way its going down. The government is not that broke that they're going to sell weed cheaply and promote usage.
but if the price goes up, what is stopping people from going to their regular dealers and getting weed like they normally do? It would only make sense for the government to sell at a lower price so they can beat the competition.

[TwelveTribes230]

I just don't see the point in smoking weed to be honest. I could never see myself waste money on something so temporary like weed just to get high. I would rather use my money to buy CDs and movies. Plus, potheads are sooo fucking annoying...all they talk about is pot...like is fuckin gold or something. Hell mabey i'm just cheap and that's standing in the way of me smoking weed like so many other people, but I would rather spend my money on something more useful and lasts a long time. And also spend my time enjoying life rather than trying to escape from it by getting high. Just my opinion/views

[ScarletGrove]

Hungry, Happy, Sleepy.. Legalize.

[paidtomakegirls]

I just don't see the point in smoking weed to be honest. I could never see myself waste money on something so temporary like weed just to get high. I would rather use my money to buy CDs and movies. Plus, potheads are sooo fucking annoying...all they talk about is pot...like is fuckin gold or something. Hell mabey i'm just cheap and that's standing in the way of me smoking weed like so many other people, but I would rather spend my money on something more useful and lasts a long time. And also spend my time enjoying life rather than trying to escape from it by getting high. Just my opinion/views

Why do you assume that the only reason people smoke is to escape life?

[TwelveTribes230]

Why do you assume that the only reason people smoke is to escape life?

Not the only reason..but one of them. I have friends that smoke whenever things get too tough or stressful..they just all get together and "get high" and expect everything to get better instead of dealing with it or get high because it clams themselves down. Not all people do that...but some people... that's why I mentioned it. I probably should have clarified it in my first post.

[Johnnydcp]

Well think about it this way: if you were smoking weed to look cool because you're breaking the law, and then suddenly it's legalized, wouldn't you just move on to the next drug to continue looking cool?

People who smoke weed know what they're risking; don't try to justify it.

Who says that everyone who smokes weed does it to look cool? Maybe in High School, but not really after. Your logic is flawed big time.

[jesse_hitz]

i say no because it smells like shit, all day at work fucking hippies come in to my store and stink up the fucking place with there value-village pot smoked clothing. FUCK HIPPIES

[inthemidst]

As much as it would probably spare a lot of space in prison, and would save a lot of governmental funding; realistically I don't see the legalization of marijuana happening. The religious right and moralistic government would do everything in their power to keep it from happening. I don't smoke weed, and never have, so I don't really care that much either way. I just don't see it as much of a possibility. Then again, I could be wrong. Anyone have any evidence on this becoming a reality?

[topher465]

If you vote no then you are either ignorant or a hypocrite. Oh and no better than those Westboro Baptist people, you know imposing your morals on other people.

This is like saying that if you vote "yes" you are a either a pothead or burnout and will never amount to anything because you smoke pot.


Be fair and try not to make generalizations, because it closes off the channels of honest communication and discussion.

[tkamB]

This is like saying that if you vote "yes" you are a either a pothead or burnout and will never amount to anything because you smoke pot.


Be fair and try not to make generalizations, because it closes off the channels of honest communication and discussion.

The intent of that post was to get a rise out of people and for someone to give me a reasonable and informed argument on why marijuana should remain illegal. I have yet to see that argument and so I stand by what I said.

[topher465]

How does that allow someone to give you a reasonable answer? How about? "What do you guys think?" I'm less inclined to talk to someone who is trying to simply get a rise out of me instead of seeking an honest anwer.

[Stavie Steelo]

Yes will help out this economy and help out with policing and cracking down on things that actually matter.

[chrislauren]

If you vote no then you are either ignorant or a hypocrite. Oh and no better than those Westboro Baptist people, you know imposing your morals on other people.
I think it should be legal for medical reasons, helping sufferers of glaucoma or cancer patients, etc. but besides that, my opinion is no. And that in no way makes me a hypocrite. A hypocrite is telling someone they shouldn't do something when you have done it or do it yourself. i don't do it, i've never done it, and i don't plan on ever doing it. And i'm not imposing my morals on other people, there was yes or no, and i picked no. Just because I don't think weed should be legal doesn't make me a crazy religious freak who thinks everyone is going to hell if they smoke weed. I just don't think it should be legal unless it is for serious medical condition in which it can help relieve pain. Passing judgement is what the Westboro Church does, and that is exactly what you are doing.

[tkamB]

I think it should be legal for medical reasons, helping sufferers of glaucoma or cancer patients, etc. but besides that, my opinion is no. And that in no way makes me a hypocrite. A hypocrite is telling someone they shouldn't do something when you have done it or do it yourself. i don't do it, i've never done it, and i don't plan on ever doing it. And i'm not imposing my morals on other people, there was yes or no, and i picked no. Just because I don't think weed should be legal doesn't make me a crazy religious freak who thinks everyone is going to hell if they smoke weed. I just don't think it should be legal unless it is for serious medical condition in which it can help relieve pain. Passing judgement is what the Westboro Church does, and that is exactly what you are doing.

Um? You didn't give your reason for it remaining illegal? I'm not passing judgment, I'm stating fact. There is no reasonable argument that justifies marijuana remaining illegal. Prove me wrong.

[chrislauren]

Um? You didn't give your reason for it remaining illegal? I'm not passing judgment, I'm stating fact. There is no reasonable argument that justifies marijuana remaining illegal. Prove me wrong.
Nothing in your original post said 'Hey, if you don't think weed should be legal, what is your reasoning?" You said if you don't think weed should be legal, you are a hypocrite and should basically go join the westoboro baptist church, because saying no to weed legalizaion is shoving your morals down someones throat. I've overheard people on the subway talking about how it's easier to drive when your high or how it's not as bad as driving drunk and you don't hear about anyone getting into car accidents when your high, and other ill-informed, dumb banter like that. I don't think it should be legal because i have a little brother and cousins who would think "well, since it's legal, then it must be okay." The point is i don't want the young people in my life who i care about to be affected by marajuana in any way. and if they grow up in a world where it's not against the law, they'll think it's ok to do it. Maybe it's ok for you, but it isn't for me. I can't change your opinon on it, nobody can, so all i can do is give you my opinion. And saying all that shit in your first post isn't a fair or reasonable argument.

[jwicklun]

If you vote no then you are either ignorant or a hypocrite. Oh and no better than those Westboro Baptist people, you know imposing your morals on other people.
i agree with the hypocrite part, but sorry protesting dead solidier funerals does not equate to being against weed.

[tkamB]

Nothing in your original post said 'Hey, if you don't think weed should be legal, what is your reasoning?" You said if you don't think weed should be legal, you are a hypocrite and should basically go join the westoboro baptist church, because saying no to weed legalizaion is shoving your morals down someones throat. I've overheard people on the subway talking about how it's easier to drive when your high or how it's not as bad as driving drunk and you don't hear about anyone getting into car accidents when your high, and other ill-informed, dumb banter like that. I don't think it should be legal because i have a little brother and cousins who would think "well, since it's legal, then it must be okay." The point is i don't want the young people in my life who i care about to be affected by marajuana in any way. and if they grow up in a world where it's not against the law, they'll think it's ok to do it. Maybe it's ok for you, but it isn't for me. I can't change your opinon on it, nobody can, so all i can do is give you my opinion. And saying all that shit in your first post isn't a fair or reasonable argument.


http://absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?p=63206522#post63206 522 my argument is #1 if you want to read it.

The original statement was meant to get a rise out of people and to think about their stance on the issue and It apparently worked with you. To the bolded part, I think this falls under the "ignorance" category and before you take it as an insult it just means you are uninformed. Everyone who drinks and smokes knows that it is MUCH harder to get alcohol than weed when you are underage. Why? Because it is legal and well-regulated. Most of the time you're getting alcohol from older siblings, so in your case if you don't want to let your little brother/cousins smoke then it will be much easier to stop them then it is now. Oh and just because you don't think its okay means that it should be illegal? I find fast food disgusting and terrible for your health, yet I don't think fast food should be illegal. I made a conscience decision to not drink more than a couple beers at a party because I know it is bad for my health, yet I don't tell other people that they can't because I think people should be allowed to make their own choices, you know the whole freedom thing this country was founded on. A parent should protect children from things they deem wrong, not the government.

[atainder]

No. It should be decriminalized.

[tkamB]

How does that allow someone to give you a reasonable answer? How about? "What do you guys think?" I'm less inclined to talk to someone who is trying to simply get a rise out of me instead of seeking an honest anwer.

Really because I'm pretty sure it has been working. I've gotten at least 5 replies to the comment seeking to prove that their reasoning is not out of hypocrisy and/or ignorance. Which has given me the chance to reply to show them why they are misinformed. I'm pretty sure I would have gotten 0 replies with a "What do you think" because that is what the poll is. And to be honest, it isn't about convincing the no's, more about convincing the ones that are on the fence.

i agree with the hypocrite part, but sorry protesting dead solidier funerals does not equate to being against weed.

It is an exaggeration on the idea that they are pushing their morals onto other people.

[Bruised26]

Marijuana is a natural substance! I dont smoke it and advise against it, but kids will find a way to get it, even if its illegal. I say YES to making it legal, and kids will smoke it less because most of them are just doing it to be edgy "oo look at me im doing something Illegal"

[chrislauren]

http://absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?p=63206522#post63206 522 my argument is #1 if you want to read it.

The original statement was meant to get a rise out of people and to think about their stance on the issue and It apparently worked with you. To the bolded part, I think this falls under the "ignorance" category and before you take it as an insult it just means you are uninformed. Everyone who drinks and smokes knows that it is MUCH harder to get alcohol than weed when you are underage. Why? Because it is legal and well-regulated. Most of the time you're getting alcohol from older siblings, so in your case if you don't want to let your little brother/cousins smoke then it will be much easier to stop them then it is now. Oh and just because you don't think its okay means that it should be illegal? I find fast food disgusting and terrible for your health, yet I don't think fast food should be illegal. I made a conscience decision to not drink more than a couple beers at a party because I know it is bad for my health, yet I don't tell other people that they can't because I think people should be allowed to make their own choices, you know the whole freedom thing this country was founded on. A parent should protect children from things they deem wrong, not the government.
Absolutely, it's a parents responsibility to protect their children, but it's a governments responsibility to protect everyone. You asked me for a reason, i gave it to you, and because i care about about the wellbeing of those close to me, i'm ignorant and uninformed. I'm as informed as i need to be and i had no plans on trying to change your opinion and sway you my way. Your opinion is yours. My opinion is mine. And that's all there is to it. There's no point to me getting in a heated debate when there is no right or wrong answer. Yes or no, you agree or you don't.

[tkamB]

Absolutely, it's a parents responsibility to protect their children, but it's a governments responsibility to protect everyone. You asked me for a reason, i gave it to you, and because i care about about the wellbeing of those close to me, i'm ignorant and uninformed. I'm as informed as i need to be and i had no plans on trying to change your opinion and sway you my way. Your opinion is yours. My opinion is mine. And that's all there is to it. There's no point to me getting in a heated debate when there is no right or wrong answer. Yes or no, you agree or you don't.

I'm sorry but its in my nature to continue an argument :/, you don't have to respond but I have to. You said it's a governments responsibility to protect everyone, but why do people need to be protected from marijuana and not fast food, or alcohol, or cigarettes, or energy drink, coffee, etc. Those are all worse for your health than marijuana and yet are all legal to adults or people of all ages what are they protecting people from?And Why have something illegal and benefiting those that live outside the law instead of something legal that benefits society as a whole? Who would you rather the profits from marijuana going to drug dealers and gangs or hard-working families and the government? You are so set on protecting those around you, yet are failing to realize that it would be easier to accomplish that if it were legal. Drug dealers don't care who they are selling to, its illegal anyway, but if you make it illegal to sell to a minor while being legal to sell to an adult it will make those that sell marijuana much less likely to sell to minors. And even if they do they aren't going to be carrying the harder drugs on them that drug dealers do now and won't be pushing minors to buy those and thus helping end the gateway effect. You say you are informed enough, but if you take a closer look you might come to a different conclusion then the one you have now.

[herestoyoufla]

Yes it should. But I'd advise against smoking anything.

haha i love the irony in the statement/avatar.

[skellorock]

I am 100% against the recreational use of marijuana, but despite my moral beliefs, i think the fact that its illegal is unconstitutional and hypocritical since prohibition was lifted on booze, morality can't be legislated, but if it is ban it all or let it go.

oh and if weed is ever legalized, don't be stupid, save those braincells
stay clean

[Charles777]

I hate it but it should be legal. Even alcohol is legal.

[bladerdude360]

No it shouldn't. Legalizing marijuana will make all the "rebels" go on to something more dangerous and addicting, merely because it is no longer "daring" and "cool" to smoke weed anymore. Leave it illegal and let all the idiots think they're being cool, living on the edge.

1. Telling me I'm wrong because of my age is ignorance.
2. Yeah, and if weed was legal, they'd be doing way more destructive drugs to try and look cool.
3. And so what difference does it make if it's legal or not to them? Weed being illegal isn't stopping them from smoking, so why legalize it?

Well think about it this way: if you were smoking weed to look cool because you're breaking the law, and then suddenly it's legalized, wouldn't you just move on to the next drug to continue looking cool?

People who smoke weed know what they're risking; don't try to justify it.

You're answering the question as yourself. Answer the question as a poser using drugs to gain street cred. And if you repeat "no," then you're a hypocrite for calling me ignorant.
All of this is really fucking dumb. I don't smoke, but still, this is just stupid.

[zachff]

Make that shit legal and tax the hell out of it

[mantipede]

If you vote no then you are either ignorant or a hypocrite. Oh and no better than those Westboro Baptist people, you know imposing your morals on other people.

I'm really curious, what do you mean by 'hypocrite' in this situation? I've never smoked weed, I don't condone it in any way, shape or form, I simply do not agree with it. Why am I a hypocrite?

[tkamB]

I'm really curious, what do you mean by 'hypocrite' in this situation? I've never smoked weed, I don't condone it in any way, shape or form, I simply do not agree with it. Why am I a hypocrite?

You are a hypocrite because you believe a dangerous drug should be legal (alcohol) while a relatively safe drug (marijuana) should be illegal while justifying it based on health effects only because you have interest in one of them. You are saying this should be a free country yet people should only be free to make choices that you agree with. Assuming of course you believe that people should have freedom and that you think alcohol should remain legal. If you do believe in one or both assumptions then you are indeed a hypocrite if not then you are probably just ignorant, misinformed, or both.

[mantipede]

You are a hypocrite because you believe a dangerous drug should be legal (alcohol) while a relatively safe drug (marijuana) should be illegal while justifying it based on health effects only because you have interest in one of them. You are saying this should be a free country yet people should only be free to make choices that you agree with. Assuming of course you believe that people should have freedom and that you think alcohol should remain legal. If you do believe in one or both assumptions then you are indeed a hypocrite if not then you are probably just ignorant, misinformed, or both.

I believe that people should have freedom, but I've had enough tragedy in my life to disagree with alcohol being legal. I actually agree that marijuana is relatively a lot safer than alcohol, and I guess if pressed to choose, I'd say alcohol should be illegal before weed (though I feel we're nowhere near the position to ever ban alcohol again...I can't see America standing for it). I feel that no mood/mind/etc-altering substance should legal, but it's not something I'd fight for because of our freedom here. I have my hang ups about drugs and alcohol and I stand by them but I know it would never get anyway.

My point about this is, you called people hypocrites but only by naturally assuming you knew where they stood on other issues.

[tkamB]

I believe that people should have freedom, but I've had enough tragedy in my life to disagree with alcohol being legal. I actually agree that marijuana is relatively a lot safer than alcohol, and I guess if pressed to choose, I'd say alcohol should be illegal before weed (though I feel we're nowhere near the position to ever ban alcohol again...I can't see America standing for it). I feel that no mood/mind/etc-altering substance should legal, but it's not something I'd fight for because of our freedom here. I have my hang ups about drugs and alcohol and I stand by them but I know it would never get anyway.

My point about this is, you called people hypocrites but only by naturally assuming you knew where they stood on other issues.

First of all in your profile it says you drink occasionally, so wouldn't you be a hypocrite to say alcohol should be illegal? And you said weed should be legal before alcohol should be, so why are you against the legalization of weed if you use a substance which you have stated is worse than weed?

You feel no mood/mind/altering substance should be legal? So caffeine should be illegal? So fat, sugar, and salt should be illegal (they cause a release of dopamine that gives us pleasure)? What about activities that alter your mind? Should exercise be illegal (Serotonin, Endorphins)? Should sex(Dopamine, Serotonin, Endorphins, etc)? Everything you put into/do with your body has some effect on your mood and mind because that is how the body works, it reacts to stimulants.

I know where people stand on the issues, this isn't the first time I've argued in favor of marijuana legalization. And 99% of the arguments are out of ignorance and/or hypocrisy. There is no reasonable argument against the legalization of marijuana.

[mantipede]

First of all in your profile it says you drink occasionally, so wouldn't you be a hypocrite to say alcohol should be illegal? And you said weed should be legal before alcohol should be, so why are you against the legalization of weed if you use a substance which you have stated is worse than weed?

You feel no mood/mind/altering substance should be legal? So caffeine should be illegal? So fat, sugar, and salt should be illegal (they cause a release of dopamine that gives us pleasure)? What about activities that alter your mind? Should exercise be illegal (Serotonin, Endorphins)? Should sex(Dopamine, Serotonin, Endorphins, etc)? Everything you put into/do with your body has some effect on your mood and mind because that is how the body works, it reacts to stimulants.

I know where people stand on the issues, this isn't the first time I've argued in favor of marijuana legalization. And 99% of the arguments are out of ignorance and/or hypocrisy. There is no reasonable argument against the legalization of marijuana.

My profile was never changed from last year, I realize that's my fault. I don't drink and haven't for a while.

You bring up a lot of things I can't and won't argue with, because you're right. Though I feel that there's a giant difference between, say, tequila and candy, it's whatever, your point is still valid. My thing is, as I stated in my previous post, I don't agree with it but I don't fight it. If I made laws, I would make it all illegal. But I don't, and I know how I feel is in the minority so I tend to keep it to myself. I was honestly just curious about the hypocrite portion of your first post.

Again, you bring up sound facts of which I can't compete with and I'll even agree that I feel like the priorities of issues like this are sort of lost most of the time (i.e. alcohol isn't illegal but weed it).

[HoldThatSound]

do not smoke weed, but yeah, it should be legalized.
^^

[HoldThatSound]

Marijuana is a natural substance! I dont smoke it and advise against it, but kids will find a way to get it, even if its illegal. I say YES to making it legal, and kids will smoke it less because most of them are just doing it to be edgy "oo look at me im doing something Illegal"
if they made it legal, there would be an age limit. so they would still be doing it illegally if they were under 18/21

[nathaniel]

If you vote no then you are either ignorant or a hypocrite. Oh and no better than those Westboro Baptist people, you know imposing your morals on other people.

This may be the most unintelligent thing I've read in a while.

[tkamB]

This may be the most unintelligent thing I've read in a while.

Care to prove me wrong? Provide me with one argument against legalization that isn't out of ignorance and/or hypocrisy and I would be happy to change my statement.

[golferpunk1]

If you vote no then you are either ignorant or a hypocrite. Oh and no better than those Westboro Baptist people, you know imposing your morals on other people.
I voted yes.

You sir are an example of an ignorant hypocrite. You assume everyone who disagrees with you is a religious nut=ignorant. You want others to not impose their morals on you but you want to impose your morals on others=hypocrite.

Just because someone doesn't agree with you doesn't make them stupid or ignorant. There are valid points to both sides of the argument. Debate is healthy.

[songydarko]

I could care less either way. I'm not a part of the weed lovin' world.

[charliewinn]

I say leave it illegal because that is the way Jesus wants its.

Are you serious?

[tkamB]

I voted yes.

You sir are an example of an ignorant hypocrite. You assume everyone who disagrees with you is a religious nut=ignorant. You want others to not impose their morals on you but you want to impose your morals on others=hypocrite.

Just because someone doesn't agree with you doesn't make them stupid or ignorant. There are valid points to both sides of the argument. Debate is healthy.

When did I say I want to impose my morals on other people? I didn't say I want to force people to smoke weed. Second of all I am far from ignorant, I have debated marijuana legalization many times, have written 2 college papers on it, and know where both sides stand on the issue. Its funny that people consider being called ignorant an insult as it is far from it. I never called anyone stupid, ignorant and stupid are very different maybe you should see to purchasing a dictionary. But anyway my point has yet to be proved wrong as no one has given me an argument against legalization that is not out of ignorance or hypocrisy, so the statement still holds true.

[<*)))><]

Are you serious?
You don't believe in Jesus or something?

[charliewinn]

I believe that he was a person.