- What are the social problems created by the criminalization of drugs and alcohol?
Many social issues come about as a direct result of the criminalization of drugs and alcohol. For example, criminalization leads to the illegal purchase of drugs and alcohol by an individual who probably stole the money to purchase in the first place. Criminalization opens the door for illicit drugs to flood the street and also gives rise to more users within the community and the discrimination of minorities. The enforcement of such laws also leads to unjustifiable harm to individuals involved in the sale and purchase of drugs and alcohol. Wide-scale arrests have also led to the ruining of family and individual lives.
- In which ways would society benefit with the legalization of drugs such as marijuana, cocaine and heroin?
The legalization of drugs would benefit society because numerous individuals who would have otherwise found themselves in contact with the criminal justice system for possessing drugs for personal use would be spared. Sparing such individuals would also result in fewer broken homes within the communities. Crime rates would additionally go down because people will no longer find it necessary to steal money or rob people to buy drugs. The legalization of drugs would mean that users will likely engage in safer practices that prevent them from overdosing or contracting diseases. Also, drug users are probably going to openly seek treatment options if they are struggling with dependence instead of going underground for fear of being stigmatized.
- Are you in favor of the legalization of currently illegal drugs? Why?
I am in favor of the legalization of currently illegal drugs because crime rates will be easier to control. Many drug users end up committing crimes to support their drug addiction. However, if the presently illicit drugs are made legal, drug users might not see the need to commit such crimes because legalization would lead to an increase of supply, and the drugs will be cheaply and readily available. Also, legalizing currently illegal drugs might boost the economy because of the additional legal income from drug sales.