Marihuana, A Signal of Misunderstanding
The Report of the National Commission on Marihuana and Drug Abuse
Chapter V
marihuana and social policy
A Social Control Policy for Marihuana
In formulating a Marihuana policy, our strongest concern is with irresponsible use,
whether it be too often, too much, indiscriminate, or under improper circumstances. The
excessive or indiscriminate use of any drug is a serious social concern; and this is
particularly true of marihuana since we still know very little about the effects of long
term, heavy use. We have little doubt that the substantial majority of users, under any
social control policy, including the existing system, do not and would not engage in
irresponsible behavior.
In identifying the -appropriate social control policy for marihuana, we have found it
helpful to consider the following policy options:
I Approval of Use.
II Elimination of Use.
III Discouragement of Use.
IV Neutrality Toward Use.
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