Cannabis[1]

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2. 2 Many people enjoy smoking cannabis. I think the overall benefit to these people is greater than the harm it does. I know that smoking cannabis makes people more likely to get schizophrenia. But it makes me feel relaxed. What happens to other people doesn't bother me. Alcohol and cigarettes are harmful drugs. But they are legal. So people should be entitled to smoke cannabis too. Cannabis users can experience panic and paranoia. They may suffer memory loss. We have a duty to protect people from these effects. Cannabis damages sperm. We must protect men – and their future partners – who might one day want children. If cannabis were legal, it could be taxed. Then everyone would benefit from the money people spent on it. I have multiple sclerosis. Cannabis makes my pain and muscle spasms less bad. I should not have to risk getting a criminal record or losing my job. On balance, I think the harm done by cannabis is greater than its benefits. It will do even more harm if it is legalised. The effects of a joint of cannabis last at least 4 hours. If cannabis were legal, more people will drive when under its influence. We have a duty to prevent suffering caused by road accidents. Heavy users get aggressive if their supply suddenly stops. Other people have the right not to be exposed to this danger. Cannabis users put tobacco in their joints. Passive tobacco smoking causes breathing problems in children. Children should not have to suffer being exposed to cannabis smoke at home. If cannabis were legalised, users would not have to meet drug dealers. They would be less likely to go on to hard drugs.

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