Mitch Earleywine
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195138931
- eISBN:
- 9780199893270
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195138931.003.0012
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
This chapter presents some concluding thoughts from the author. It argues that the future for cannabis holds many possibilities. Research on the cannabinoids and their receptors will undoubtedly ...
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This chapter presents some concluding thoughts from the author. It argues that the future for cannabis holds many possibilities. Research on the cannabinoids and their receptors will undoubtedly continue to tell more about the human mind and body. This work could reveal additional information about the brain and immune system. Further work can test the efficacy of marijuana and the cannabinoids as medical treatments. Data on the long-term health effects of the drug could address many unanswered questions, particularly those concerning the lung and brain. Techniques may evolve to limit the drug's negative consequences, like recent efforts to develop the vaporizer to reduce noxious components of smoke. Treatments for problem users could improve. In addition, laws related to the drug may change.Less
This chapter presents some concluding thoughts from the author. It argues that the future for cannabis holds many possibilities. Research on the cannabinoids and their receptors will undoubtedly continue to tell more about the human mind and body. This work could reveal additional information about the brain and immune system. Further work can test the efficacy of marijuana and the cannabinoids as medical treatments. Data on the long-term health effects of the drug could address many unanswered questions, particularly those concerning the lung and brain. Techniques may evolve to limit the drug's negative consequences, like recent efforts to develop the vaporizer to reduce noxious components of smoke. Treatments for problem users could improve. In addition, laws related to the drug may change.
Mitch Earleywine
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195188028
- eISBN:
- 9780199893577
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188028.003.0017
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
This chapter reviews some of the arguments presented in the preceding chapters. It concludes that truly valuing compassion and justice can lead us to legalize medical cannabis and remove penalties ...
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This chapter reviews some of the arguments presented in the preceding chapters. It concludes that truly valuing compassion and justice can lead us to legalize medical cannabis and remove penalties for possession of marijuana for personal use. A focus on some other values can lead to more dramatic changes. For example, a taxed, legal market for marijuana is consistent with the value of fiscal responsibility. Alternatively, a completely free market for marijuana is consistent with the value of liberty. But the United States may not be ready for such big steps. For now, we can focus on the fundamental values of compassion and justice; let us legalize medical marijuana and remove penalties for personal use. Religious, moral, and empirical arguments mandate these moves. Precedents from other countries offer further support. If we value justice and compassion, we must change marijuana policy.Less
This chapter reviews some of the arguments presented in the preceding chapters. It concludes that truly valuing compassion and justice can lead us to legalize medical cannabis and remove penalties for possession of marijuana for personal use. A focus on some other values can lead to more dramatic changes. For example, a taxed, legal market for marijuana is consistent with the value of fiscal responsibility. Alternatively, a completely free market for marijuana is consistent with the value of liberty. But the United States may not be ready for such big steps. For now, we can focus on the fundamental values of compassion and justice; let us legalize medical marijuana and remove penalties for personal use. Religious, moral, and empirical arguments mandate these moves. Precedents from other countries offer further support. If we value justice and compassion, we must change marijuana policy.
Robert C. Fuller
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195369175
- eISBN:
- 9780199871186
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195369175.003.0004
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
Every experience has a neurochemical foundation. Even the slightest alteration in the brain's accustomed neurochemistry therefore has the potential to elicit unusual experiences that might have ...
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Every experience has a neurochemical foundation. Even the slightest alteration in the brain's accustomed neurochemistry therefore has the potential to elicit unusual experiences that might have strikingly spiritual qualities. This chapter draws upon recent studies in neuroscience to help understand the link between the “chemistry of consciousness” and episodes of religious innovation throughout American history. From Native American peyotism to the role of psychedelics in the 1960s counterculture movement, there have been clear and identifiable neurochemical substrates to Americans' quest for religious ecstasy.Less
Every experience has a neurochemical foundation. Even the slightest alteration in the brain's accustomed neurochemistry therefore has the potential to elicit unusual experiences that might have strikingly spiritual qualities. This chapter draws upon recent studies in neuroscience to help understand the link between the “chemistry of consciousness” and episodes of religious innovation throughout American history. From Native American peyotism to the role of psychedelics in the 1960s counterculture movement, there have been clear and identifiable neurochemical substrates to Americans' quest for religious ecstasy.
Gary L. Wenk
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- September 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195388541
- eISBN:
- 9780199863587
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195388541.003.0005
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Behavioral Neuroscience, Neuroendocrine and Autonomic
The brain makes its own marijuana. Of course, no one knew this until recently. Thus, for many thousands of years our ancestors harvested or cultivated marijuana-producing plants in order to ...
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The brain makes its own marijuana. Of course, no one knew this until recently. Thus, for many thousands of years our ancestors harvested or cultivated marijuana-producing plants in order to experience euphoria, which is the brain's response to the stimulation of its own marijuana neurotransmitter system. Marijuana also has analgesic, i.e., pain relief, and anti-inflammatory effects which may become the basis for its medical use in the future. The discovery of your brain's own marijuana neurotransmitter, called anandamide, has demonstrated how important this neurotransmitter system is to normal brain function. Cannabinoid neurons control the release of dopamine; this action explains the ability of marijuana to produce euphoria. The stimulation of cannabinoid function in your brain's feeding centers may underlie the classic side-effect known as “the munchies.” Once again, it can be seen that understanding the distribution of a neurotransmitter in the brain provides clues to its function and insight into why we consume certain plants.Less
The brain makes its own marijuana. Of course, no one knew this until recently. Thus, for many thousands of years our ancestors harvested or cultivated marijuana-producing plants in order to experience euphoria, which is the brain's response to the stimulation of its own marijuana neurotransmitter system. Marijuana also has analgesic, i.e., pain relief, and anti-inflammatory effects which may become the basis for its medical use in the future. The discovery of your brain's own marijuana neurotransmitter, called anandamide, has demonstrated how important this neurotransmitter system is to normal brain function. Cannabinoid neurons control the release of dopamine; this action explains the ability of marijuana to produce euphoria. The stimulation of cannabinoid function in your brain's feeding centers may underlie the classic side-effect known as “the munchies.” Once again, it can be seen that understanding the distribution of a neurotransmitter in the brain provides clues to its function and insight into why we consume certain plants.
Gordon W. Russell
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195189599
- eISBN:
- 9780199868445
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195189599.003.0003
- Subject:
- Psychology, Social Psychology
This chapter highlights environmental factors that include crowding, temperature, noise, color, and lunar effects in an examination of their role in facilitating interpersonal aggression. A number of ...
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This chapter highlights environmental factors that include crowding, temperature, noise, color, and lunar effects in an examination of their role in facilitating interpersonal aggression. A number of commonly used drugs, for example alcohol, marijuana, and diazepam, were also evaluated with respect to their effects on aggression. The effects of alcohol on aggression and the extent of its usage by fans versus nonfans and gender were outlined. The most central and hallowed concept in sports, “competition,” is carefully defined and shown to all too easily lead to hostility. Studies on the effects of the mere presence of guns and other weapons on the aggression of bystanders were reviewed. A preliminary examination of where on the field of play aggression occurs was undertaken. While there may be a home field performance advantage, is their a corresponding home field aggression advantage?Less
This chapter highlights environmental factors that include crowding, temperature, noise, color, and lunar effects in an examination of their role in facilitating interpersonal aggression. A number of commonly used drugs, for example alcohol, marijuana, and diazepam, were also evaluated with respect to their effects on aggression. The effects of alcohol on aggression and the extent of its usage by fans versus nonfans and gender were outlined. The most central and hallowed concept in sports, “competition,” is carefully defined and shown to all too easily lead to hostility. Studies on the effects of the mere presence of guns and other weapons on the aggression of bystanders were reviewed. A preliminary examination of where on the field of play aggression occurs was undertaken. While there may be a home field performance advantage, is their a corresponding home field aggression advantage?
Daniel Egan and Jeffrey A. Miron
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195188028
- eISBN:
- 9780199893577
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188028.003.0002
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
Advocates of marijuana prohibition argue that it reduces marijuana trafficking and use, thereby discouraging crime, improving productivity, and enhancing public health. Critics counter that ...
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Advocates of marijuana prohibition argue that it reduces marijuana trafficking and use, thereby discouraging crime, improving productivity, and enhancing public health. Critics counter that prohibition has only modest effects on trafficking and use, and that it causes many problems typically attributed to marijuana itself. Both sides agree, however, that the cost of prohibition enforcement is quite large. And anti-prohibitionists note that prohibition prevents taxation of marijuana production and sale. If marijuana were legal, they argue, enforcement costs would be negligible, and governments could have a rich new source of revenue by levying taxes on the production and sale of marijuana. This chapter is devoted to estimating these savings and revenue gains. The chapter proceeds as follows. Section II estimates state and local expenditure on marijuana prohibition. Section III estimates federal expenditure on marijuana prohibition. Section IV estimates the tax revenue that would accrue from legalized marijuana. Section V discusses caveats and implications.Less
Advocates of marijuana prohibition argue that it reduces marijuana trafficking and use, thereby discouraging crime, improving productivity, and enhancing public health. Critics counter that prohibition has only modest effects on trafficking and use, and that it causes many problems typically attributed to marijuana itself. Both sides agree, however, that the cost of prohibition enforcement is quite large. And anti-prohibitionists note that prohibition prevents taxation of marijuana production and sale. If marijuana were legal, they argue, enforcement costs would be negligible, and governments could have a rich new source of revenue by levying taxes on the production and sale of marijuana. This chapter is devoted to estimating these savings and revenue gains. The chapter proceeds as follows. Section II estimates state and local expenditure on marijuana prohibition. Section III estimates federal expenditure on marijuana prohibition. Section IV estimates the tax revenue that would accrue from legalized marijuana. Section V discusses caveats and implications.
Roger A. Roffman and Anne Nicoll
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195188028
- eISBN:
- 9780199893577
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188028.003.0008
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
This chapter argues that the anti-prohibition movement will enhance its effectiveness in promoting liberalized policy and will better serve the public if the movement's mission is expanded to include ...
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This chapter argues that the anti-prohibition movement will enhance its effectiveness in promoting liberalized policy and will better serve the public if the movement's mission is expanded to include the dissemination of accurate, thorough, and balanced marijuana educational information, tailored for each of its current and potential constituencies. A number of premises underlie this position, and these are discussed as a prelude to approaching the chapter's central theme. It is argued that many people with varying personal interests in marijuana stand to benefit from an expanded mission of the policy reform movement such as that envisioned here. The chapter identifies each of these groups and briefly considers both their needs and the advantages they might subsequently enjoy if the movement does in fact make a greater investment in marijuana education.Less
This chapter argues that the anti-prohibition movement will enhance its effectiveness in promoting liberalized policy and will better serve the public if the movement's mission is expanded to include the dissemination of accurate, thorough, and balanced marijuana educational information, tailored for each of its current and potential constituencies. A number of premises underlie this position, and these are discussed as a prelude to approaching the chapter's central theme. It is argued that many people with varying personal interests in marijuana stand to benefit from an expanded mission of the policy reform movement such as that envisioned here. The chapter identifies each of these groups and briefly considers both their needs and the advantages they might subsequently enjoy if the movement does in fact make a greater investment in marijuana education.
Charles Thomas
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195188028
- eISBN:
- 9780199893577
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188028.003.0012
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
This chapter summarizes the marijuana-related positions that the Interfaith Drug Policy Initiative (IDPI) has located for the following: the 25 largest Christian denominations in the United States; ...
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This chapter summarizes the marijuana-related positions that the Interfaith Drug Policy Initiative (IDPI) has located for the following: the 25 largest Christian denominations in the United States; and the four major sects of Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and several other major Christian and other religious groups and coalitions with significant positions. It presents findings from several major public opinion polls about marijuana policy, delineated by religious affiliation, frequency of worship attendance, and other relevant variables. It details how current positions supporting some degree of policy reform are being used to make changes in our nation's marijuana-related policies, and presents some arguments, likely to be persuasive to religious people, on the need for more substantial marijuana law reform, such as removing criminal penalties for personal-use possession and allowing legally regulated access. Finally, the chapter suggests what people of faith and goodwill, including marijuana consumers and policy-reform advocates, can do to change the current situation so that marijuana users and non-users can ultimately live in peaceful coexistence.Less
This chapter summarizes the marijuana-related positions that the Interfaith Drug Policy Initiative (IDPI) has located for the following: the 25 largest Christian denominations in the United States; and the four major sects of Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and several other major Christian and other religious groups and coalitions with significant positions. It presents findings from several major public opinion polls about marijuana policy, delineated by religious affiliation, frequency of worship attendance, and other relevant variables. It details how current positions supporting some degree of policy reform are being used to make changes in our nation's marijuana-related policies, and presents some arguments, likely to be persuasive to religious people, on the need for more substantial marijuana law reform, such as removing criminal penalties for personal-use possession and allowing legally regulated access. Finally, the chapter suggests what people of faith and goodwill, including marijuana consumers and policy-reform advocates, can do to change the current situation so that marijuana users and non-users can ultimately live in peaceful coexistence.
Charles Thomas
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195188028
- eISBN:
- 9780199893577
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188028.003.0013
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
This chapter is in some ways an elaboration of the previous chapter, which summarized the marijuana-related positions of the nation's leading religious denominations and other groups. It gives ...
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This chapter is in some ways an elaboration of the previous chapter, which summarized the marijuana-related positions of the nation's leading religious denominations and other groups. It gives detailed analyses of these religious groups' positions, including representative comments on their reasons for taking these positions.Less
This chapter is in some ways an elaboration of the previous chapter, which summarized the marijuana-related positions of the nation's leading religious denominations and other groups. It gives detailed analyses of these religious groups' positions, including representative comments on their reasons for taking these positions.
Mary Ann Pentz and Steve Sussman
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195188028
- eISBN:
- 9780199893577
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188028.003.0014
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
The variety of possible types of marijuana-use policies has received virtually no attention as a potential drug-abuse prevention strategy. Marijuana policies for adults, and debates related to those ...
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The variety of possible types of marijuana-use policies has received virtually no attention as a potential drug-abuse prevention strategy. Marijuana policies for adults, and debates related to those policies, can alter adolescent perceptions. This chapter examines possibilities for changing policies to improve prevention of adolescent marijuana use, taking into account existing and perceived policies, and the potential for prevention programs and policies to interact in their effects on youths' marijuana use.Less
The variety of possible types of marijuana-use policies has received virtually no attention as a potential drug-abuse prevention strategy. Marijuana policies for adults, and debates related to those policies, can alter adolescent perceptions. This chapter examines possibilities for changing policies to improve prevention of adolescent marijuana use, taking into account existing and perceived policies, and the potential for prevention programs and policies to interact in their effects on youths' marijuana use.
Rodney Skager
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195188028
- eISBN:
- 9780199893577
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188028.003.0015
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
This chapter examines one of the most controversial issues in recent debates on medical marijuana. It takes a close look at data on teen attitudes and use in California after the passage of medical ...
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This chapter examines one of the most controversial issues in recent debates on medical marijuana. It takes a close look at data on teen attitudes and use in California after the passage of medical marijuana laws. Many have asserted that linking marijuana to medical illness could normalize the drug's use in teens' minds, thus suggesting to them that the drug must be harmless. The chapter shows that empirical work does not support the idea, and tells an intriguing tale about how holding dearly to the idea of medical marijuana normalizing teen use, even in the face of contradictory evidence, has led to strange reactions to these data.Less
This chapter examines one of the most controversial issues in recent debates on medical marijuana. It takes a close look at data on teen attitudes and use in California after the passage of medical marijuana laws. Many have asserted that linking marijuana to medical illness could normalize the drug's use in teens' minds, thus suggesting to them that the drug must be harmless. The chapter shows that empirical work does not support the idea, and tells an intriguing tale about how holding dearly to the idea of medical marijuana normalizing teen use, even in the face of contradictory evidence, has led to strange reactions to these data.
Ennis Barrington Edmonds
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195133769
- eISBN:
- 9780199834167
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195133765.003.0005
- Subject:
- Religion, World Religions
The continued existence of social movements usually depends on the development of hierarchical institutional structures. Rastafari, however, is characterized by an ethos rather than institutional ...
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The continued existence of social movements usually depends on the development of hierarchical institutional structures. Rastafari, however, is characterized by an ethos rather than institutional structures. This ethos is characterized by three essential elements: (1) a reticulated social structure or web‐like network of individuals, “houses,” and “mansions” (various groupings of Rastas); (2) a worldview encoded in symbols and symbolic references such as dreadlocks, Ethiopian colors, and Babylon; and (3) ritual activities – primarily ganja (marijuana) smoking and “reasoning” – collectively known as “grounding.”Less
The continued existence of social movements usually depends on the development of hierarchical institutional structures. Rastafari, however, is characterized by an ethos rather than institutional structures. This ethos is characterized by three essential elements: (1) a reticulated social structure or web‐like network of individuals, “houses,” and “mansions” (various groupings of Rastas); (2) a worldview encoded in symbols and symbolic references such as dreadlocks, Ethiopian colors, and Babylon; and (3) ritual activities – primarily ganja (marijuana) smoking and “reasoning” – collectively known as “grounding.”
Mitch Earleywine (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195188028
- eISBN:
- 9780199893577
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188028.001.0001
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
Marijuana use continues to attract interest and fuel controversy. Big, green pot leaves have adorned the covers of Time, National Review, and Forbes. Almost 100 million Americans have tried marijuana ...
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Marijuana use continues to attract interest and fuel controversy. Big, green pot leaves have adorned the covers of Time, National Review, and Forbes. Almost 100 million Americans have tried marijuana at least once. Groups such as The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana (NORML) and The Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) have tens of thousands of members. Polls suggest that 70-80% of Americans support medicinal marijuana. At least 11 U.S. states have experimented with decriminalization and medical marijuana laws, with new initiatives appearing each year. Meanwhile, other groups such as Partnership for a Drug-Free America and Mothers Against Drugs protest legalization. Clearly, debate about marijuana policy shows no sign of abating. This collection of essays resulted from researchers, policy makers and citizens being asked to avoid oversimplification, to separate empirical findings from their interpretations, and to understand that some things may be neither good nor evil. The result is multiple perspectives from a variety of experts on an important problem with vast implications. The volume presents ethical, religious, economic, psychological and political arguments for cannabis policies that range from prohibition to unrestricted legalization. By presenting a unique perspective on overlapping issues, each chapter demonstrates how even recognized experts draw markedly different conclusions from the same data. Some contributors evaluate policy by weighing the costs and benefits of control while others eschew policy by presenting moral arguments against our attempts at control.Less
Marijuana use continues to attract interest and fuel controversy. Big, green pot leaves have adorned the covers of Time, National Review, and Forbes. Almost 100 million Americans have tried marijuana at least once. Groups such as The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana (NORML) and The Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) have tens of thousands of members. Polls suggest that 70-80% of Americans support medicinal marijuana. At least 11 U.S. states have experimented with decriminalization and medical marijuana laws, with new initiatives appearing each year. Meanwhile, other groups such as Partnership for a Drug-Free America and Mothers Against Drugs protest legalization. Clearly, debate about marijuana policy shows no sign of abating. This collection of essays resulted from researchers, policy makers and citizens being asked to avoid oversimplification, to separate empirical findings from their interpretations, and to understand that some things may be neither good nor evil. The result is multiple perspectives from a variety of experts on an important problem with vast implications. The volume presents ethical, religious, economic, psychological and political arguments for cannabis policies that range from prohibition to unrestricted legalization. By presenting a unique perspective on overlapping issues, each chapter demonstrates how even recognized experts draw markedly different conclusions from the same data. Some contributors evaluate policy by weighing the costs and benefits of control while others eschew policy by presenting moral arguments against our attempts at control.
Mitch Earleywine
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195138931
- eISBN:
- 9780199893270
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195138931.003.0010
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
This chapter begins by presenting a brief history of marijuana legislation. It then discusses arguments about prohibition, the decriminalization of cannabis, the costs of marijuana prohibition, ...
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This chapter begins by presenting a brief history of marijuana legislation. It then discusses arguments about prohibition, the decriminalization of cannabis, the costs of marijuana prohibition, alternative cannabis policies.Less
This chapter begins by presenting a brief history of marijuana legislation. It then discusses arguments about prohibition, the decriminalization of cannabis, the costs of marijuana prohibition, alternative cannabis policies.
Mitch Earleywine
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195188028
- eISBN:
- 9780199893577
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188028.003.0001
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
This chapter begins by discussing the debates surrounding marijuana policy. It then presents 12 questions to ask before debating marijuana policy. It argues that if each debate about cannabis policy ...
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This chapter begins by discussing the debates surrounding marijuana policy. It then presents 12 questions to ask before debating marijuana policy. It argues that if each debate about cannabis policy could begin with these questions, not only could our thinking could grow more rational, but our policies could too.Less
This chapter begins by discussing the debates surrounding marijuana policy. It then presents 12 questions to ask before debating marijuana policy. It argues that if each debate about cannabis policy could begin with these questions, not only could our thinking could grow more rational, but our policies could too.
Kevin A. Sabet
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195188028
- eISBN:
- 9780199893577
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188028.003.0016
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
This chapter examines arguments for and against marijuana use and concludes that prohibitory laws on marijuana are justified. It presents the case that restrictive laws on marijuana — a harmful drug ...
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This chapter examines arguments for and against marijuana use and concludes that prohibitory laws on marijuana are justified. It presents the case that restrictive laws on marijuana — a harmful drug — have actually kept use levels low compared with levels for alcohol and tobacco, and though the public policy of marijuana prohibition is not perfect, it is far better than a regime of legalization or depenalization. In this case, it is argued that the status quo is about right. It is no open-and-shut case, but a more pertinent question than “Which is better: legalization or prohibition?” would go something like “How can we make restrictive policies work better?” The chapter hopes to establish why we should begin with having restrictive policies in the first place.Less
This chapter examines arguments for and against marijuana use and concludes that prohibitory laws on marijuana are justified. It presents the case that restrictive laws on marijuana — a harmful drug — have actually kept use levels low compared with levels for alcohol and tobacco, and though the public policy of marijuana prohibition is not perfect, it is far better than a regime of legalization or depenalization. In this case, it is argued that the status quo is about right. It is no open-and-shut case, but a more pertinent question than “Which is better: legalization or prohibition?” would go something like “How can we make restrictive policies work better?” The chapter hopes to establish why we should begin with having restrictive policies in the first place.
Mitch Earleywine
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195138931
- eISBN:
- 9780199893270
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195138931.003.0005
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
Perceptions change during marijuana intoxication. Time and space appear distorted. The senses seem more sensitive. Higher functions like thought, memory and spirituality can alter, too. Some of these ...
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Perceptions change during marijuana intoxication. Time and space appear distorted. The senses seem more sensitive. Higher functions like thought, memory and spirituality can alter, too. Some of these changes stem from the pharmacological properties of the cannabinoids. Others arise from the expectations of the user, the demands of the environment, or the attitudes of the culture where the drug is ingested. These factors can combine in unpredictable ways to create odd experiences. This chapter describes some of the difficulties associated with assessing subjective experience and addresses marijuana's perceived effects on time, space, and the senses, as well as higher functions like emotion, thought, memory, sexuality, spirituality, and sleep.Less
Perceptions change during marijuana intoxication. Time and space appear distorted. The senses seem more sensitive. Higher functions like thought, memory and spirituality can alter, too. Some of these changes stem from the pharmacological properties of the cannabinoids. Others arise from the expectations of the user, the demands of the environment, or the attitudes of the culture where the drug is ingested. These factors can combine in unpredictable ways to create odd experiences. This chapter describes some of the difficulties associated with assessing subjective experience and addresses marijuana's perceived effects on time, space, and the senses, as well as higher functions like emotion, thought, memory, sexuality, spirituality, and sleep.
Elizabeth Price Foley
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- October 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780300109832
- eISBN:
- 9780300134995
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Yale University Press
- DOI:
- 10.12987/yale/9780300109832.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, Social History
In the opening chapter of this book, the author writes, “The slow, steady, and silent subversion of the Constitution has been a revolution that Americans appear to have slept through, unaware that ...
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In the opening chapter of this book, the author writes, “The slow, steady, and silent subversion of the Constitution has been a revolution that Americans appear to have slept through, unaware that the blessings of liberty bestowed upon them by the founding generation were being eroded.” She proceeds to explain how, by abandoning the founding principles of limited government and individual liberty, we have become entangled in a labyrinth of laws that regulate virtually every aspect of behavior and limit what we can say, read, see, consume, and do. The author contends that the United States has become a nation of too many laws, where citizens retain precious few pockets of individual liberty. With a close analysis of urgent constitutional questions—abortion, physician-assisted suicide, medical marijuana, gay marriage, cloning, and drug policy—she shows how current constitutional interpretation has gone astray. Without the bias of any particular political agenda, the author argues that we need to return to original conceptions of the Constitution and restore personal freedoms which have gradually diminished over time.Less
In the opening chapter of this book, the author writes, “The slow, steady, and silent subversion of the Constitution has been a revolution that Americans appear to have slept through, unaware that the blessings of liberty bestowed upon them by the founding generation were being eroded.” She proceeds to explain how, by abandoning the founding principles of limited government and individual liberty, we have become entangled in a labyrinth of laws that regulate virtually every aspect of behavior and limit what we can say, read, see, consume, and do. The author contends that the United States has become a nation of too many laws, where citizens retain precious few pockets of individual liberty. With a close analysis of urgent constitutional questions—abortion, physician-assisted suicide, medical marijuana, gay marriage, cloning, and drug policy—she shows how current constitutional interpretation has gone astray. Without the bias of any particular political agenda, the author argues that we need to return to original conceptions of the Constitution and restore personal freedoms which have gradually diminished over time.
Linda A. Parker
- Published in print:
- 2017
- Published Online:
- September 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780262035798
- eISBN:
- 9780262338448
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- The MIT Press
- DOI:
- 10.7551/mitpress/9780262035798.001.0001
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Research and Theory
Cannabinoids and the Brain introduces an informed general audience to the scientific discovery of the endocannabinoid system and recent preclinical research that explains its importance in brain ...
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Cannabinoids and the Brain introduces an informed general audience to the scientific discovery of the endocannabinoid system and recent preclinical research that explains its importance in brain functioning. The endocannabinoids, anandamide and 2-AG, act on the same cannabinoid receptors, that are activated by the primary psychoactive compound found in marijuana, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Therefore, the scientific investigations of the functions of the endocannabinoid system are guided by the known effects of marijuana on the brain and body. The book reviews the scientific evidence of the role that the endocannabinoid system plays in regulating emotion, anxiety, depression, psychosis, reward and addiction, learning and memory, feeding, nausea/vomiting, pain, epilepsy, and other neurological disorders. Anecdotal reports are linked with the current scientific literature on the medicinal benefits of marijuana. Cannabis contains over 80 chemicals that have closely related structures, called cannabinoids, but the only major mood-altering constituent is THC. Another major plant cannabinoid is cannabidiol (CBD), which is not psychoactive; yet, considerable recent preclinical research reviewed in various chapters reveals that CBD has promising therapeutic potential in treatment of pain, anxiety, nausea and epilepsy. Only recently, has research been conducted with some of the other compounds found in cannabis. The subject matter of the book is extremely timely in light of the current ongoing debate not only about medical marijuana, but also about its legal status.Less
Cannabinoids and the Brain introduces an informed general audience to the scientific discovery of the endocannabinoid system and recent preclinical research that explains its importance in brain functioning. The endocannabinoids, anandamide and 2-AG, act on the same cannabinoid receptors, that are activated by the primary psychoactive compound found in marijuana, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Therefore, the scientific investigations of the functions of the endocannabinoid system are guided by the known effects of marijuana on the brain and body. The book reviews the scientific evidence of the role that the endocannabinoid system plays in regulating emotion, anxiety, depression, psychosis, reward and addiction, learning and memory, feeding, nausea/vomiting, pain, epilepsy, and other neurological disorders. Anecdotal reports are linked with the current scientific literature on the medicinal benefits of marijuana. Cannabis contains over 80 chemicals that have closely related structures, called cannabinoids, but the only major mood-altering constituent is THC. Another major plant cannabinoid is cannabidiol (CBD), which is not psychoactive; yet, considerable recent preclinical research reviewed in various chapters reveals that CBD has promising therapeutic potential in treatment of pain, anxiety, nausea and epilepsy. Only recently, has research been conducted with some of the other compounds found in cannabis. The subject matter of the book is extremely timely in light of the current ongoing debate not only about medical marijuana, but also about its legal status.
Mitch Earleywine
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195138931
- eISBN:
- 9780199893270
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195138931.001.0001
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
Marijuana is the world's most popular illicit drug, with hundreds of millions of regular users worldwide. One in three Americans has smoked pot at least once. The Drug Enforcement Agency estimates ...
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Marijuana is the world's most popular illicit drug, with hundreds of millions of regular users worldwide. One in three Americans has smoked pot at least once. The Drug Enforcement Agency estimates that Americans smoke five million pounds of marijuana each year; and yet marijuana remains largely misunderstood by both its advocates and its detractors. To some, marijuana is an insidious “stepping-stone” drug, enticing the inexperienced, and paving the way to the inevitable abuse of harder drugs. To others, medical marijuana is an organic means of easing the discomfort or stimulating the appetite of the gravely ill. Others still view marijuana, like alcohol, as a largely harmless indulgence, dangerous only when used immoderately. All sides of the debate have appropriated the scientific evidence on marijuana in order to satisfy their claims. What then are we to make of these conflicting portrayals of a drug with historical origins dating back to 8,000 bc? This book examines the biological, psychological, and societal impact of this controversial substance. What are the effects, for mind and body, of long-term use? Are smokers of marijuana more likely than non-users to abuse cocaine and heroine? What effect has the increasing potency of marijuana in recent years had on users and on use? Does our current legal policy toward marijuana make sense?Less
Marijuana is the world's most popular illicit drug, with hundreds of millions of regular users worldwide. One in three Americans has smoked pot at least once. The Drug Enforcement Agency estimates that Americans smoke five million pounds of marijuana each year; and yet marijuana remains largely misunderstood by both its advocates and its detractors. To some, marijuana is an insidious “stepping-stone” drug, enticing the inexperienced, and paving the way to the inevitable abuse of harder drugs. To others, medical marijuana is an organic means of easing the discomfort or stimulating the appetite of the gravely ill. Others still view marijuana, like alcohol, as a largely harmless indulgence, dangerous only when used immoderately. All sides of the debate have appropriated the scientific evidence on marijuana in order to satisfy their claims. What then are we to make of these conflicting portrayals of a drug with historical origins dating back to 8,000 bc? This book examines the biological, psychological, and societal impact of this controversial substance. What are the effects, for mind and body, of long-term use? Are smokers of marijuana more likely than non-users to abuse cocaine and heroine? What effect has the increasing potency of marijuana in recent years had on users and on use? Does our current legal policy toward marijuana make sense?
