Persuasive Essay On Legalizing Marijuana

America has been historically known throughout the world as the land of the free - a place where one can live their life as they please, without the chains of oppression to tie them down or a heavy-handed government to rule their life. The Pilgrims left their home country of England to flee religious persecution, so it was only natural that they would want the country they laid the foundation for to be a land of freedom, where people of all religions and lifestyles were welcome. However, America has strayed from their wishes and from the guidance of the Constitution, and has become a place where the government interferes in the lives of the people far more than is wise or necessary. The criminalization of marijuana is one example of such arbitrary, illogical, and
Marijuana is a green, brown, or gray mixture of dried and shredded leaves, stems, seeds, and flowers of the cannabis sativa plant. The major active compound in marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol - or THC. Marijuana 's effects on the user depend on the strength or potency of the THC it contains (Gans). The drug 's short-term psychoactive effects, known as a "high," can vary based on the individual, but can include altered perception; mild euphoria; relaxation / lethargy; paranoia, agitation or anxiety; and increased hunger or increased appreciation of taste (AKA "the munchies"). Physiologically, marijuana can produce increased heart rate; dryness of the mouth; dilation and reddening of the eyes; and impaired motor skills, concentration, and judgment. In the long-term, marijuana abuse may increase the risk of heart attack, cancer, and other health problems; depression, anxiety, and personality disturbances have also been associated with chronic marijuana use ("NIDA