MARIJUANA NOT AS HARMFUL AS OTHER DRUGS

I have loved reading the CT for the last three years, and am usually
impressed by the Opinions section, even when the articles are
ridiculously liberal. The obvious liberalism of the staff is part of
the reason I'm so surprised by the editorial "U.S. not ready to puff
the magic dragon," (CT, Nov. 4).

First of all, the extremes the editorial board went to are absurd.
Paralleling marijuana and heroin? Are you kidding me? That might be
the most ignorant comment I've ever seen published in this paper.

The article reflects the author's complete lack of knowledge about
marijuana. It claims that with so many problems with alcohol, the
United States "can't handle" marijuana. The truth is, marijuana is
less harmful to people and society than alcohol. In fact, that was
exactly the argument used to persuade Denver voters.

Legalization of marijuana would undoubtedly reduce alcohol
consumption. Alcohol leads to a social unruliness (fights, rape,
domestic abuse, etc.) that marijuana doesn't; and it impairs the
ability to function and make decisions to a much higher degree.

As someone who has spent a lot of time around regular marijuana users
(as well as plenty of heavy drinkers) I can honestly say the effects
of marijuana are minimal compared to those of alcohol. And the fact
is, adults should be able to make the choice, just like they can with
cigarettes and alcohol.

The biggest problem with marijuana is that people (such as the
editorial board) don't distinguish it from other drugs. It's too bad
so many people can't have an open mind and see the real picture,
rather than just regurgitate what they've heard from bad after-school
specials and D.A.R.E officers.

Author: Mark McLean, senior mechanical engineering