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Heavy drinkers can be pretty non-functioning as well, and result in arguably more collateral damage. Most anything can be abused.
by zackham 16y ago
Heavy drinkers can be pretty non-functioning as well, and result in arguably more collateral damage. Most anything can be abused.
- ErrantX 16y agoAbsolutely. So, from a rational perspective, why add one more problem to the melting pot? (which is my main point I think)
- seasoup 16y agoBecause making it illegal does not make it go away. It certainly hasn't made it difficult to get for those that want it bad enough. Instead, it drives casual users away that know how to control themselves away.
- zackham 16y agoMy point is that a potential for abuse is not a specific enough criticism. Drinking and driving is illegal because it endangers property and other people, public drunkenness is illegal because it is a nuisance, smoking in public buildings is illegal (at least here) because it is a health hazard to others; things should not be outlawed for their _potential_ for abuse, the effects of their abuse should be outlawed. I recognize that at this point we probably have a difference of opinion that is difficult to argue past, but I wanted to clarify my position.
- eru 16y ago> public drunkenness is illegal because it is a nuisance Depends on your country. (Also for the other things you mention.)
- khafra 16y agoI think the perspective here is a bit skewed--the problem of abuse is here; it's as widespread as it can get. That problem can be alleviated by legalization: We remove the legal difficulties inherent in asking for help with problematic consumption, and--as illustrated in Portugal, the Netherlands, and other places--may very well decrease consumption, as well.
- ErrantX 16y agothe problem of abuse is here; it's as widespread as it can get. If by widespread you mean it is everywhere then agreed. If you mean in terms of numbers I disagree - it strikes me as logical that a legalized drug will have more users, and equably more abuser. That problem can be alleviated by legalization: We remove the legal difficulties inherent in asking for help with problematic consumption I agree with the last part. But am unconvinced that legalization is required to achieve that - just decriminalize personal possession, or remove any legal fall out associated with rehab/drugs help. If that's our sole reason for legalization I don't think it stands up.
- heed 16y agoJust because a substance is legalized doesn't mean its users are resolved of all responsibility when using said substance. As with alcohol, there should be consequences for being under the influence and restrictions on how to obtain it. The point of making pot legal is so that casual users aren't fined or criminally punished for having a joint after work.
- ErrantX 16y agoThe point of making pot legal is so that casual users aren't fined or criminally punished for having a joint after work. Ah, well that seems reasonable. I'd actually come out in support of decriminalization - it seems to have tentatively worked in countries where it has been trialled.