POT PERSPECTIVES

Cracking down further on marijuana use, as Antonio Maria Costa
suggests (Reefer Is Worth Getting Mad About -- Aug. 5) is not the
answer. Marijuana is already illegal, but that doesn't stop people
from using it, because most -- even those who don't use it -- don't
think there is anything wrong with it. Our laws are out of step with
the views of most of society.

Legalizing marijuana would have a number of benefits. For one, it
would be easier to control its sale in the same way as alcohol and
tobacco. The government would also be able to regulate its production,
resulting in a safer supply of the drug. Perhaps most importantly, it
would provide a new stream of revenue for the government in the form
of sales and excise taxes. These funds could be used to help pay for
any health problems caused by marijuana use, as well as anti-drug
education programs and tougher enforcement of rules against harder
drugs.

I'm sure that many readers will think I am a pothead, but nothing
could be further from the truth. Although I cannot stand marijuana, I
believe that Mr. Costa's dogmatic approach is unrealistic and that
it's time for a more pragmatic solution.

Adam Smith, Calgary