ARGUMENTS FOR LEGALIZING POT ARE WEAK

Recently, I have been studying the complex issue of marijuana and
those who propose its full legalization. Its a very interesting
subject, and it tends to take a rather Labyrinth-like road. However,
those who propose marijuana legalization basically rely on two simple
arguments. And when you examine these basic arguments, you find that
the case for full legalization is weak indeed.

The first argument runs something like this: "If we were to fully
legalize marijuana, there would be fewer arrests, and thus, a lot of
strain would be lifted from the judicial system." This argument makes
no sense. Should we legalize murder because then there would be less
arrests? Just because legalization would lessen the load on our law
enforcement doesn't mean that its the right thing to do.

The second argument: "Legalizing marijuana would deprive pushers of
their illegal, expensive market, for all of the addicts would have
their needs met legally." Again, this argument speaks nothing as to
what is right. Let's say there's a serial killer stalking innocent
victims. Should the government say: "To deprive this killer of his
victims, let's kill them before he does. Then, he'll be deprived of
his 'market.'?" This is ridiculous.

Basically, legalization focuses on what's easy, not on what's right. I
believe that the government is doing the right thing right now in
fighting drugs. The right thing isn't always easy to do. But that
doesn't mean it shouldn't be done.

Legalization is a lazy solution; it just throws in the towel. Let's
not let America descend to such depths. Let's stand by what's right.

Drue Berry

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