Pubdate: Sun, 10 Aug 2014
Source: Toronto Star (CN ON)
Copyright: 2014 The Toronto Star
Contact:  http://www.thestar.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/456
Author: Graeme Gardiner
Page: A10

OUR MIDDLE CLASS GOING TO POT

The partisan issue of whether or not to legalize marijuana will solve
nothing. We know now that the war on drugs has failed. Since 1990 the
price of illicit drugs has actually decreased because of an
overabundant supply. The steady demand continues to be fuelled in
large part by people trying to temporarily escape unfulfilled lives.

The trickle-down economy started in the same time period has also not
worked. Inequality is at historically high levels. Unchecked
capitalism has created concentrated wealth, a middle class in steady
decline and an increased market for illicit drugs.

The economic and social cost of these two failed programs is enormous.
Perhaps it is time to consider a new and much cheaper approach. A
strong public school system could turn the next generation away from
illicit drugs and toward fulfilling well-paid jobs created in a
properly managed capitalist system. After a single 12-year public
school cycle we could very well see a renewed prosperous middle class.

Why can't our politicians see the connections and do more than just
try to score political points?

Graeme Gardiner, Sidney B.C.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Matt