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Originally Posted by LoBlo
Crack itself is a derivative of cocaine, which itself is procured from a naturally occuring plant.
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The key word here being a "derivative". A substance that is extracted, chemically separated, processed and concentrated far beyond the potential effects of the humble coca leaf it started out as. THC or "angel dust" would be the same thing when compared to pot.
The cost/benefit of marijuana to society that you mention is completely subjective depending on whose numbers you want to use. I've read estimates as high as a full third of adult Americans are what would be considered at least occasional users of pot. Not the bottom third mind but evenly distributed throughout all levels of society and totally indistinguishable from their non (or other) using fellow citizens. You'll rarely hear about them or see them included in offical government cost analysis because they aren't usually dumb or unlucky enough to let their use be exposed and their lives ruined because of it.
Besides the certainly plausible arguments that the government makes too much money and power off pot remaining illegal, I say where is the concept of personal responsibility anymore? If a person operates a vehicle under the influence of
any drug, legal or otherwise, that impairs their judgement or ability as a driver then that is wrong and they should be punished if caught. End of story, especially if they endanger or hurt someone.
However, taking the extra step and saying "no you can't do this for any reason, even in a responsible manner in the privacy of your own home" just because some idiot couldn't handle his basic civic responsibility not to act like an irresponsible a$$ that endangers his fellow citizens, is not what i would consider a free society available to anyone that can use them win a responsible manner.
Worst of all such mass punishment is applied with no rhyme or reason, certainly not as long as tobacco and
especially alcohol remain legal.