We need a fresh perspective on the legalization of marijuana. Most of the progress in legalization has been for medicinal purposes. The debate over legalization for recreational purposes traditionally concerns questions over whether the detrimental effects of the drug are sufficiently bad to outlaw it.

The issue might be recast in terms of what societal good the widespread recreational use of marijuana can produce. The conclusion might be that recreational use should be legalized and encouraged.

A realist would not pretend marijuana will cure all our current ills. But some of its effects, specifically the psychological effect characterized as "mellowing," may be of value.

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