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Originally Posted by RichieLion
Your post tells me you don't really have any real first hand knowledge of the recreational use of marijuana and maybe even of alcohol, and on this issue you just have your heartbreak over casualties. Are there addictive personalities? Sure there are. People can become emotionally addicted to many different things. We might have to start a big list of what to ban.
Do you think the kids you're concerned about don't have access to marijuana because it's illegal? Do you think drinkers had no access to alcohol during Prohibition?
If you think that people who enjoy an adult beverage or even a marijuana cigarette are "escaping life", you really aren't thinking this through and embracing reality.
But I know I won't change your mind and you must know I won't change mine. I smoked for many years off and on as desired, and now haven't for many years because I haven't desired. I enjoy adult beverages more now when I'm socializing. Gee, how did I do that; just stop smoking? It's because marijuana is not physically addictive, and like most people, I'm not predisposed to addiction.
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Remember those Dragnet episodes of Joe Friday busting someone?
You are fortunate and blessed to not have an addiction. I agree about social use. Reality is people will use.
My insights are not as a former user. Back a decade ago I worked with a therapist who worked with addicts mostly related to cocaine and heroin addiction. This is before Youtube. Lots of Powerpoint and video, animations about dopamine and endorphins, etc. The purpose of the job and seminars was to help health care professionals earn CEU's to maintain their job at a hospital or treatment center.
Regarding, marijuana: I was under the impression that it more powerful now than back in the 60s and 70s. The consensus seemed to that for some it can be a gateway drug. Some people have a tendency to become addicted. They have addictive personalities. It is in their DNA. Addiction is a disease, not a moral choice. Many of the interview of addicts that we did (protecting their identity) mentioned starting with a joint or alcohol. But then they are addicts. They all have a drug of choice.
Lack of legalization is not a deterrent. Social mores have changed. Some early could be just experimentation or an act of rebellion for young people.
Smoking is definitely more addictive and harder to quit. Many addicts that I met and were in rehab could quit the drugs more easily than the Marlboros.
Think of your underage drinking experiences. That didn't stop many of us. Alcohol is far more dangerous than pot. We all know someone who is an alcoholic or in recovery. I haven't read the bill but heard a soundbite. Decriminalization might free enforcement agencies and the court system to pursue other endeavors. Besides, the war on drugs hasn't worked. Remember those Say No to Drugs urinal liners? It is supply and demand. There is too much demand. Plus we could make it a sin tax like booze...
Legalize. Limit possession and monitor driving under the influence like a DUI.
For those who are addicted, repeated violations under the influence,provide treatment if they want to quit.
Not the same story for opiates.