Topic Proposal

Peter Kolev

English 101

3/24/09

Legalization of Recreational Marijuana Use

 

The following is a global proposal for the legalization of recreational marijuana use.  The issue of marijuana policy is not something that can be ignored forever, especially considering the new mass interest in the topic.  As stated in my exploratory analysis on marijuana policy there are three major points of view associated with marijuana use.  These points are held by those in favor of recreational use, those in favor of medical application, and those who want marijuana prohibited.  I will provide evidence that shows the best solution to this controversial issue is to legalize the recreational use of marijuana.  The steps required to come to this solution include the domino effect on states’ policies, lobbying the federal government to change its stance, and common sense tactics for changing the minds of those who are still against legalization.  Emphasis must also be put on the medical benefits of marijuana use, as well as the heath issues associated with the drug.  A simple justification for the legalization of recreational marijuana use is that if a twenty-one year old can drink alcohol and smoke cigarettes, two drugs with more health liability than marijuana use, than that same twenty-one year old should be legally allowed to purchase marijuana for recreational use.  I will analyze my proposal from the point of view of those in favor of recreational marijuana use and cite authors such as Paul Armentano, Wyatt Buchanan, and Louise Gagnon.  My main concern for this paper is that it may not be taken seriously by those who are adamantly against the use of marijuana in any context.  These people are the ones who need the most attention when making the argument to legalize and if the argument proposed is not taken seriously, we have no chance at changing their minds.