Why criminalization doesn’t curtail consumption

The spirit of prohibition is rooted in the desire to restrict individuals from accessing certain substances or engaging in particular activities deemed harmful or undesirable by those in power. At its core, prohibition is a paternalistic approach that employs the threat of severe consequences, often in the form of state-sanctioned violence, to discourage and punish those who dare to defy the established rules. If we were to remove the veneer of governmental authority from this equation, the true nature of prohibition would be laid bare as a hostile and coercive scenario, where the individual’s autonomy is subjugated to the whims of the ruling class.

Proponents of prohibition argue that this looming threat of violence is a necessary evil, a means to an end in the quest to curtail consumption and send a clear message to impressionable youth that certain behaviors will not be tolerated. They claim that by instilling fear of legal repercussions, society can effectively deter individuals from engaging in prohibited activities, thereby protecting them from potential harm. “The law will punish you!” becomes the rallying cry of those who believe that the heavy hand of the state is the only way to maintain order and public health.

However, a recent Gallup poll has called into question the very foundation upon which the edifice of prohibition is built. The survey found that rates of marijuana use are nearly identical in states that have legalized the substance compared to those that continue to maintain its prohibition. This startling revelation suggests that criminalization has little impact on actually curbing consumption, challenging the long-held belief that the threat of punishment is an effective deterrent.

In light of this new evidence, it is time to ask ourselves: isn’t there a better way? If prohibition fails to achieve its stated goal of reducing substance use, while simultaneously perpetuating a system of violence and oppression, should we not seek alternative approaches that prioritize harm reduction, education, and individual liberty? The spirit of prohibition may be deeply entrenched in our society, but the cracks in its foundation are beginning to show, inviting us to imagine a future where the individual’s autonomy is respected and evidence-based policies prevail over fear-mongering and coercion.

The recent Gallup poll on marijuana use in the United States has shed new light on the effectiveness, or lack thereof, of drug prohibition. The survey, which involved interviews with 6,386 U.S. adults from November 30, 2023, to December 8, 2023, found that rates of marijuana use are nearly identical in states that have legalized the substance compared to those that continue to maintain its prohibition. This finding strikes at the heart of the argument that criminalization is necessary to curb drug consumption.

According to the poll, one in 10 American adults reported using marijuana 10 or more times in the past month, while one in five admitted to using cannabis at least once during the same period. When broken down by state legal status, the data revealed that 9.7 percent of adults identify as regular cannabis consumers in states that have enacted legalization, compared to 8.6 percent in non-legal states. This narrow gap in consumption rates suggests that criminalization has little impact on deterring use among American adults.

The poll also examined marijuana use across different age groups and regions. Interestingly, there were no significant differences in consumption rates between adults aged 18-29, 30-39, and 40-49, with all three age groups averaging around 12 percent regular use. The survey accounted for the various methods of marijuana consumption, including smoking, vaping, and consuming edibles, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of use patterns.

Perhaps most striking is the finding that the West region, which includes states like California, Oregon, and Washington that have established adult-use cannabis markets, has a slightly lower usage rate (10 percent) compared to the Middle Atlantic region (11 percent), where only Pennsylvania has maintained prohibition for adult use. This data further undermines the notion that legalization leads to increased consumption.

The Gallup poll provides compelling evidence that the criminalization of drug use has little to no impact on actual consumption rates. As the debate surrounding drug policy continues to evolve, these findings should serve as a catalyst for policymakers to reevaluate the efficacy of prohibition and explore alternative approaches that prioritize public health, harm reduction, and individual liberty over punitive measures that have proven ineffective in curbing substance use. The data speaks for itself: it is time to abandon the failed war on drugs and embrace evidence-based strategies that address the root causes of substance abuse while respecting the autonomy of individuals.

It’s a simple truth that has been consistently demonstrated throughout the history of drug prohibition: those who want to consume substances will find a way to do so, regardless of the legal status or societal stigma attached to their chosen intoxicant. Even during the height of the drug war, when draconian policies and harsh punishments were the norm, consumption rates never significantly declined. In fact, they often remained stable or even spiked in response to the increased pressure from law enforcement, highlighting the futility of attempting to control human behavior through brute force and intimidation.

The reality is that if someone wants to get high, they can and will find a way to do so. It’s a matter of networking and tapping into the right circles, and virtually anyone with a bit of determination and resourcefulness can gain access to illicit substances. Ironically, even playing into stereotypes can sometimes lead to success in this endeavor, as the black market thrives on the very prejudices and assumptions that society perpetuates.

But the larger point here is that drugs are an inextricable part of our society, woven into the fabric of human experience for millennia. From ancient rituals to modern-day experimentation, the desire to alter one’s consciousness has been a constant throughout history. It’s high time we recognize this reality and adjust our approach accordingly, rather than clinging to the misguided notion that we can somehow eradicate drug use through punishment and prohibition.

By keeping substances illegal, we create a host of other risks and problems that only serve to compound the harm associated with drug use. The unregulated nature of the black market means that users have no way of knowing the purity or potency of the substances they consume, leading to increased risk of overdose and other adverse health effects. Moreover, the criminalization of drug use perpetuates a cycle of stigma, marginalization, and incarceration that tears families and communities apart, while doing little to address the underlying causes of addiction and substance abuse.

It’s time for a paradigm shift in how we approach drug policy. Rather than futilely attempting to eliminate drug use through prohibition, we must acknowledge that intoxication is a part of the human experience and work to mitigate the harms associated with it through evidence-based strategies rooted in public health and harm reduction. By decriminalizing substance use and treating it as a matter of personal choice and individual liberty, we can create a society that is more compassionate, more just, and ultimately safer for all. Because at the end of the day, those who wanna smoke, will smoke – and it’s up to us to ensure that they can do so in a way that minimizes risk and maximizes well-being.

As we navigate the ever-shifting landscape of drug policy, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and aware of the potential pitfalls that lie ahead. In recent years, I’ve noticed a polar shift from the left to the right, a trend that, while bearable for now, carries with it the risk of veering too far into the dangerous territory of the “drug war.” It’s important to remember that it was through the lens of the “polar-right” that prohibition first laid its roots, and we must be cautious not to repeat the mistakes of the past.

As the debate surrounding cannabis legalization continues to evolve, it’s essential to scrutinize the policies being put forth and to recognize when they may not be in the best interest of the people. The proposed shift to Schedule-III, for example, is not the victory that many advocates have been fighting for. It’s not the true legalization that the cannabis community seeks, but rather a half-measure that fails to address the fundamental issues at play.

The people who have fought tirelessly for cannabis reform want nothing less than the recognition of their fundamental human right to grow, cultivate, sell, and gift this plant as they would any other commodity, like tomatoes. They seek a world where the government respects their autonomy and trusts them to make informed decisions about their own well-being, without the need for excessive regulation or control.

Instead, what we’re seeing is a government that seems intent on playing the pharmaceutical game, attempting to schedule cannabis in a way that would effectively remove it from the hands of the people and place it under the control of corporate interests. This is not the vision that the cannabis community has been fighting for, and it’s crucial that we recognize this fact and push back against any attempts to subvert the will of the people.

As we move forward, let us hold fast to the hope that the past will remain in the past, that the dark days of prohibition will fade away into the annals of history, and that the institutions that have long kept the gates of progress closed will wither and crumble.

Let us work together to build a future where the autonomy and liberty of the individual are respected, where evidence-based policies prevail over fear and stigma, and where the harms of the drug war are finally laid to rest.

May we learn from the mistakes of the past and forge a new path forward, one that values compassion, understanding, and the fundamental rights of all people.

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As more and more studies explore the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, the main hallucinogenic ingredient in magic mushrooms, encouraging results are being found for several ailments that do not respond well to traditional therapies. In spite of this, many people find it frightening to venture into the world of psychedelics.

Much like the old “reefer madness” hoax surrounding cannabis, psilocybin and other psychedelics are rapidly losing their stigma in society. There is less evidence to support the claim that psychedelic experiences always result in psychosis and other mental health problems.

Studies show that emergency room visits related to psilocybin use are exceedingly rare, with most negative effects stemming from factors like mindset, setting, and substance combinations, often resolving within a day.

While acknowledging the inherent risks in any medical intervention, recent research has focused on examining adverse effects associated with psilocybin therapy for anxiety and depression. A meta-analysis published in JAMA Psychiatry by researchers from the University of Georgia, Larkin University, and Palm Beach Atlantic University scrutinized double-blind clinical trials spanning from 1966 to 2023.

The findings identify anticipated adverse effects of psilocybin therapy for depression and anxiety, but notably, paranoia and transient thought disorders were reported infrequently compared to other symptoms.

Reflecting on Past Research to Shape the Future

The authors of a recent study on psilocybin treatment for depression and anxiety disorders commence by highlighting the existing body of research on the subject. They note that while previous clinical investigations have primarily focused on efficacy, there has been a notable absence of emphasis on the safety profile of psilocybin.

In order to analyze the side effects associated with therapeutic dosages of psilocybin in the treatment of depression and anxiety, researchers reviewed a large number of relevant publications. These studies included randomized clinical trials that compared psilocybin to placebo groups or other comparators. Furthermore, based on previous clinical data, the researchers divided the delivered dosages into three categories: low (1-3 mg), moderate (10-20 mg), and high (20-30 mg).

The analysis involved six distinct studies involving a collective total of 528 participants. Notably, participants typically experienced adverse effects either immediately or within 24 hours following psilocybin administration. Despite common misconceptions surrounding psilocybin and similar psychedelics, the study authors found no evidence linking psilocybin to the onset of paranoia or transient thought disorders, which are characterized by sudden psychotic symptoms.

Among the adverse effects observed across all six studies, headache (with an incidence ranging from 2% to 66%) and nausea (ranging from 4% to 48%) were consistently reported. Anxiety was documented in three of the studies, with incidence rates ranging from 4% to 26%. The authors also highlight that all adverse effects, except for elevated blood pressure, were estimated to occur in less than 50% of participants.

Psilocybin Induces Manageable Short-Term Side Effects with Prompt Resolution

In their discussion, researchers emphasize the necessity of summarizing the acute adverse effects of psilocybin in treating depression and anxiety for healthcare professionals. They highlight that understanding these effects is crucial for effective patient counseling. The study reveals a statistically significant occurrence of headache, nausea, anxiety, dizziness, and elevated blood pressure, which aligns with the expected side effects of serotonergic antidepressants due to psilocybin’s mechanism of action.

The research documents three instances of paranoia and transient thought disorder in high-dose psilocybin across 128 patients, with therapist or facilitator assistance likely mitigating potential complications. While the incidence of paranoia and transient thought disorder appears low, the study underscores the importance of exploring these adverse effects further.

Conclusively, the study finds that therapeutic doses of psilocybin generally result in tolerable acute adverse effects that typically subside within 24 to 48 hours. However, less common adverse effects like paranoia and prolonged visual perceptual effects merit attention.

The authors advocate for larger trials to comprehensively assess adverse effects, particularly in populations with concurrent health conditions. They also call for research focusing on medication efficacy, alternative treatments, and the role of licensed therapists in managing adverse effects.

They recommend that guidelines for monitoring acute adverse effects encompass headache, nausea, anxiety, dizziness, paranoia, blood pressure and heart rate fluctuations, visual perceptual changes, physical discomfort, and mood alterations at a minimum.

Shifting Perspectives on Psychedelics

The research of the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, notably psilocybin found in magic mushrooms, reveals that cultural attitudes are progressively changing. Psychedelics, formerly stigmatized and feared, are increasingly receiving recognized for their promise ability to address mental health issues that are resistant to traditional therapy. This paradigm change represents a break from old narratives that presented psychedelics as inherently hazardous and without therapeutic potential.

The changing way that society views psychedelics is reflected in the expanding body of research that examines their potential therapeutic uses with ever-greater rigor and detail. The potential of medicines like psilocybin to facilitate remarkable healing experiences is becoming increasingly recognized as scientific research reveals the processes underlying these effects. This new insight emphasizes the significance of taking a balanced approach to psychedelics, acknowledging both their therapeutic potential and concomitant hazards.

Within this evolving landscape, the role of healthcare professionals and researchers is pivotal in shaping informed discourse and evidence-based practices surrounding psychedelic therapy. By fostering open dialogue and disseminating accurate information, stakeholders can dispel myths and misconceptions while promoting responsible and ethical use of psychedelics in clinical settings. Furthermore, by advocating for robust regulatory frameworks and comprehensive training programs, professionals can ensure the safe and effective integration of psychedelics into mental health care.

It is critical to foster a climate of respect, empathy, and understanding surrounding the use of psychedelics as society works to move past the stigma. Through the adoption of a balanced viewpoint that recognizes the possible advantages as well as disadvantages of psychedelics, we may effectively utilize their therapeutic potential while preserving personal health. In the end, the movement toward psychedelic acceptance and de-stigmatization is a big step forward in the search for novel and all-encompassing methods of providing mental health care.

Bottom Line

As research continues to uncover the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, societal attitudes are shifting away from stigmatization toward recognition of their promise in addressing mental health challenges. This evolving perspective, mirrored by an expanding body of rigorous research, emphasizes the importance of informed discourse, responsible use, and comprehensive regulatory frameworks to ensure the safe and effective integration of psychedelics into mental health care. By fostering understanding and respect for the potential benefits and risks of psychedelics, society can move toward a more holistic approach to mental health treatment.

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420 Reflection – How far have we come?

As I approach the 25th anniversary of my introduction to the infamous “420” ritual, I find myself reflecting on the evolution of this cultural phenomenon and its place in our society. 

When I first heard about 4:20, I was a newcomer to the world of cannabis, and the concept seemed like nothing more than a quirky tradition among fellow enthusiasts. As the clock approached the designated time, a joint was readied, and we sparked up in unison, marking the moment with a shared experience. At the time, I didn’t give much thought to the origins or significance of this ritual, simply enjoying it as a fun, bonding activity while getting high. When I inquired about the reasons behind the 4:20 tradition, the answers I received were vague and unsatisfying, leaving me curious about its true roots.

As time passed, I encountered various legends and theories surrounding the origins of 420. Some spoke of high school students in California who would gather at 4:20 to indulge in their favorite pastime, while others mentioned connections to the Grateful Dead and their dedicated fan base. Despite the numerous stories circulating, the most credible lead I’ve come across points to those pioneering high-schoolers who helped popularize the term and cement its place in cannabis culture.

However, in the two decades since I first embraced the 420 tradition, our society has undergone a remarkable transformation in its attitudes towards cannabis. What was once a taboo subject, discussed in hushed tones and confined to counterculture circles, has now become a topic of mainstream conversation and political debate. 

The legalization movement has gained significant momentum, with an increasing number of states and countries recognizing the potential benefits of cannabis and moving towards more progressive policies. As we stand on the cusp of 420 in 2024, it’s clear that cannabis is closer than ever to being fully integrated into society, shedding the stigma and misconceptions that have long surrounded it.

The Global Shift Towards Cannabis

When I first began my journey with cannabis, I was young, and the culture surrounding it was still very much “underground.” In a sense, our embrace of cannabis was an act of defiance against the system. The government attempted to program us with their D.A.R.E propaganda and horror stories about the dangers of drug use, yet the kids of the early 2000s were tripping harder than those at Woodstock in 1969. The irony of the situation was that, at the height of the Drug War, drugs were more readily available and affordable than ever before.

Despite the prevalence of cannabis use, the idea of it remained taboo, and those of us “in the fold” were the ones growing it, smoking it, and championing its culture. We celebrated “420” every April 20th, separately but united, as the “unsmoken truth.” It was a time when comedies about cannabis were still a part of the mainstream entertainment landscape.

However, at some point, those in power decided to intensify the Drug War, both along the southern border with Mexico and within the United States itself. To say the least, “shit got hairy.” While drugs remained plentiful and easily accessible, the tension escalated as “drug warriors” began busting down doors, and cartels made visits to homes in Mexico. Corruption scandals emerged, with HSBC found to be funneling billions of dollars from drug cartels and terrorist organizations, yet only receiving a slap on the wrist in the form of a fine. The US government even resorted to providing weapons to the cartels, hoping to “track them to their source.” It was a period marked by bloodshed, corruption, and carnage.

However, this backdrop served as the catalyst for the question that ultimately unraveled marijuana prohibition: Is cannabis truly so detrimental to society that we must wage this level of brutality to keep our communities safe?

The answer, of course, was a resounding no.

As the realization dawned that the War on Drugs, particularly concerning cannabis, was a failed and misguided endeavor, the tides began to turn.

 Slowly but surely, public opinion shifted, and the conversation around cannabis evolved from one of fear and stigma to one of potential benefits and responsible regulation. States began to legalize medical marijuana, recognizing its therapeutic value for a wide range of conditions. As more research emerged and the positive experiences of patients and consumers came to light, the momentum towards full legalization grew.

The 420 of Today isn’t your Grandma’s 420

In the present day, cannabis has shed its underground status and emerged as a widely accepted and mainstream phenomenon. It’s no longer a taboo subject whispered about in secret; instead, it has become a cultural touchstone, with celebrities and their entourages proudly promoting their own blends of weed in the market.

Even Wall Street has taken notice, with investors eagerly jumping on the cannabis bandwagon. Countries around the world are defying global treaties and legalizing cannabis, signaling a seismic shift in attitudes and policies. There’s no denying that we are living in a vastly different time compared to the days when cannabis was a symbol of rebellion and counterculture.

However, this new era of cannabis acceptance isn’t necessarily the utopia that stoners of yesteryear dreamt of. Instead, it comes with its own set of rules, regulations, and red tape. 

The “nanny-statism” that pervades the industry can be frustrating, treating adult consumers like dumbfounded toddlers incapable of making rational decisions for themselves. The once-free-spirited cannabis culture has become somewhat sanitized and commercialized, leading some classic stoners to feel that 420 has “sold out” to the mainstream.

But here’s the thing: regardless of the mega-events, the brands, the advertisements, and the whole “system” that has sprung up around cannabis, the true essence of 420 remains untouched. 

At its core, 420 is a reason to celebrate, to come together with like-minded individuals and embrace the spirit of unity and acceptance. The public gatherings and festivals that now mark the occasion are a testament to the enduring power of the counterculture, the “we don’t give a fuck” attitude that defined the youth of the 80s and 90s who fearlessly lit up, donned baggy clothes, and embraced their wild, feral side.

So, while the 420 of today may look different from the 420 of our grandparents’ generation, the heart and soul of the movement remain intact. It’s a time to honor the pioneers who fought for legalization, to celebrate the progress we’ve made, and to look forward to a future where cannabis is fully integrated into society without stigma or judgment. 

The 420 of today is a reflection of how far we’ve come, but it’s also a reminder that the spirit of rebellion and the fight for personal freedom will always be a part of the cannabis community.

In the end, whether you’re attending a massive 420 festival or simply sharing a joint with friends in the comfort of your own home, the essence of the holiday remains the same. It’s about coming together, embracing our differences, and celebrating the plant that has brought so many people joy, relief, and a sense of belonging.

The Sticky Bottom Line

As we approach another 420 in this wild ride of 2024, let’s take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve been on, my fellow stoners. From the days when we had to keep our love for the herb under wraps to the current world where cannabis has become a mainstream sensation, it’s been one hell of a trip.

We’ve seen the rise and fall of prohibition, the emergence of a thriving industry, and the transformation of a once-underground culture into a global movement. Some might argue that 420 has lost its edge, that it’s become just another commercialized holiday. But let’s be real – the spirit of 420 is as strong as ever, and it’s not going anywhere.

So, as we get ready to blaze up and celebrate this sacred day, let’s remember what it’s all about. It’s about coming together, standing up for what we believe in, and savoring the sweet, sweet embrace of Mary Jane. Make sure you’ve got plenty of munchies on deck, and keep those drinks icy cold – trust me, you’ll thank yourself later. And when it comes to edibles, proceed with caution. Those little fuckers can sneak up on you like a ninja in the night.

But above all, remember that 420 is a day to pay homage to the legends who fought tooth and nail for our right to smoke, the ones who risked it all to bring cannabis out of the shadows and into the light. It’s a day to celebrate the unbreakable bonds of our community, the friendships forged over countless smoke sessions and shared stories.

So, spark up that joint, take a deep hit, and let the good times roll. Happy 420, my brothers and sisters. May your day be filled with top-shelf bud, positive vibes, and the knowledge that no matter how much the world changes, the spirit of the stoner will always endure. Stay lifted, stay true, and never forget – it’s always 4:20 somewhere in the world!

 

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