Should Cannabis Be Legalized? 

In recent years, there has been much discussion about the possibility of legalizing cannabis since many middle-aged and younger people enjoy recreational use of this drug for its calming effects, and they argue that it is no more harmful than alcohol when used properly. Cannabis also has well-known medical and therapeutic use as it can help relieve pain in people suffering from illnesses like multiple sclerosis and arthritis. Also, it is beneficial to those cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment to prevent side-effects like nausea and vomiting.

On the other hand, people who are against its use point out that legalization would make the use of cannabis socially acceptable, as well as encourage the abuse of this substance and the use of other more dangerous, illegal, drugs like cocaine and heroin. Needless to say, there are some people who use drugs merely because they are illegal, and thus, exciting and dangerous. Some scientists believe that teenager cannabis smokers develop a syndrome called “Demotivation Syndrome” which, according to them, leads not only to introversion, depression, passivity, and the inability to concentrate for long periods, but also even the desire to work or compete.

Being illegal, to increase profits, it is often contaminated with some toxic components as fillers, which may cause more harm than the substance itself. And, being illegal, yet, no more prone to abuse than alcohol, which is sold legally, it disproportionately clogs the criminal justice system unnecessary, as well as leaves otherwise productive citizens with a criminal record. In contrast, having the legal manufacture of its supply, along with its distribution, would be both cleaner and safer, as well as having the added benefit of generating taxes. Furthermore, countries which have experimented with its use have not encountered any massive increase in addiction or other drug use or crime.

In conclusion, in looking at both sides of this controversial topic, in my opinion, it should be legalized because of its proven medical benefits and its potential tax revenues. In this manner, it can, in fact, help thousands of seriously ill people, allow society to manage, and benefit from, its distribution, as well as free up valuable police and court resources to deal with more serious offenses.

Hi Anna Lisa. Good job! Your ideas and composition were excellent. While there were no major mistakes, I did rearrange and/or adjust and/or expound upon your sentences somewhat, to enable your argument to flow together easier, more logically, as well as to sound and “read” more naturally to my native ears. I hope that this helps you. J.