When many Americans think of drugs, what comes to mind? A rebellious teenager destroying their parent's car? A deadbeat parent neglecting their child? However, for many users of recreational drugs, this is simply not the case. Recreational drug use can be a common occurrence for many normal, contributing members of society. Even many higher level professionals such as medical practitioners use drugs such as marijuana in order to help relieve the daily stresses of life. So why such a stigma on them?
It is commonplace in our society to not realize the common consumption of substances we classify as drugs. The greatest example, caffeine. We have all heard the common phrase "I'm not myself with out my coffee," and in many cases this is true. Caffeine acts as a brain stimulant, similar to that of much higher level narcotics. Activating the pleasure and reward center of our brain (and giving us that sweet, sweet dopamine). it gives the human body a euphoric feeling and heightened energy/awareness, However, like with many stimulants, over-usage and over-reliance on the good ol' cup of joe can rewire the chemical sensors within your brain, creating a physical necessity for coffee and changing our behavior until this craving is desired. And, despite all of this caffeine is completely unregulated. So, in light of this shocking revelation of one's morning ritual, why not let lower class substances with government regulation be allowed? Some would argue "well, even still, what would be the benefits of legalization?"
If we were to allow even just one drug, marijuana, to be completely legalized throughout the U.S.A. and treated it like alcohol in regards to taxation, America would stand to gain an immeasurable amount of profit. Taxation and the insane demand for pot would allow us to contribute a hefty amount to the American tax system. Such a system would be able to not only pay for the management of the legal drug trade, but would allow Americans to enjoy a higher quality of life, as the excess revenues could be used to pay American debts, cut taxes, or be attributed to welfare programs (finally say goodbye to retiring at 147). Furthermore, it would lead to lower crime rates. Users would be able to get their weed legally and police forces can be allocated away from the drug trade, saving lots of money in regards to resource allocation and processing via the American prison system. As much benefit as legalization brings, however, comes the unfortunate reality that is the bad reputation drugs have within society. And until such reputation is lost, nation-wide legalization is but a mere dream of your roommate crashing on the couch after finishing off 15 bags of doritos...