Pubdate: Tue, 29 Jan 2013
Source: Columbian, The (WA)
Copyright: 2013 The Columbian Publishing Co.
Contact:  http://www.columbian.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/92
Author: Jim Kennedy

STRAW MAN PRESENTED IN POT DISPUTE

A series of recent letters from cannabis legalization opponents have
me scratching my head. In my opinion their arguments are in direct
conflict with their intent: reducing juvenile cannabis use.

First, their contention is usually that cannabis is a "gateway" drug.
This is ludicrous on a number of levels. More studies have discredited
this theory than have supported it. There are other issues with it
that I can't delve into here.

Secondly, there's the study that correlates juvenile cannabis abuse
and I.Q. reduction. That study is currently being questioned by
research peers. Know the argument is a bit of a straw man in the first
place because I know of no one in favor of teens' "smoking out."

Put out your torches, folks. Put down the pitchforks. Try to think
logically rather than emotionally.

Cannabis regulation through legalization and (honest) education are
our best tools in reducing juvenile cannabis abuse (the right tool for
the right job, right?). Not hysterical proselytizing from a pulpit
constructed of emotionally charged vituperation.

I'd recommend these folks take a hard look at their current tactics.
Record shows us the efficacy of the method to be worse than useless.

Jim Kennedy

VANCOUVER
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MAP posted-by: Matt