Should Marijuana Be

Legalized?
By: Corey Carl

Introduction

There's been a debate for many years on whether marijuana should be legalized or not
Pros
Boost in revenue
Can stop cancer from spreading
M.S. (Multiple Sclerosis)

Cons
Addictive Nature
Lowers Reaction Times
Effects Short-Term Memory

Boost in Revenue
Studies show that in 2014 71.3 million visitors spent 18.6 billion dollars on
marijuana
In the first seven months of 2014 the state of colorado made $73.5 million on
legal marijuana

Can Stop Cancer From Spreading

Studies

have shown that marijuana can protect against

inflammation of the colon reducing the risk of colon cancer

Another study shows that using marijuana can damage or kill

cancer cells in the liver

M.S. (Multiple Sclerosis)

Many doctors have referred marijuana to M.S. patients
A 2003 study found that cannabinoids significantly reduced pain in people
with multiple sclerosis.
Animal studies show knowledge of CB1 receptors in the brain and after
using they showed less symptoms
Marijuana can also help with stiffness or uncontrolled muscle movements in
the body

Addictive Nature

Many argue that marijuana is not an addictive drug like cocaine or heroin
Long-term use does lead to addiction
Research found that one tenth of users develop dependence over time
Stopping can lead to withdrawals
Anxiety
Depression
Feeling anxious or worried

Lowers Reaction Times

Studies show that reaction times of a person driving while under the influence has
slower reactions

Decreased handling
Distance estimation
Sleepiness

Gave 15 men a pill containing the same chemicals as marijuana

Tested them using arrows going left and right, occasionally had and odd arrow

MRI to see what's happening neurologically

Reacted slow but slower to odd arrows
Altered thinking
Paranoia
Delusional thoughts

Affects Short-Term Memory

THC is known to impair nearly all aspects of your memory
Does not affect existing or long-term memories
Induces a form of synaptic plasticity
Weakens neuronal connections

Conclusion
There are many pros and cons to the legalization of marijuana. Throughout this
research, I have found that there are positives and negatives to utilizing marijuana
for a variety of uses. Although the use of marijuana has been proven to reduce the
spread of cancer, aid in the symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis and boost revenue for
the economy, there are side effects that may inhibit individuals from succeeding
within their life. With all of the debates going on, what is your personal opinion
on legalizing marijuana?