Suggesting prohibition is an illogical, closed-minded reaction to marijuana

I must confess that after reading Kristen Roberts' article, "Arizona must reconsider faulty drug initiative," I was extremely ... well, upset. I could, quite effortlessly, portray my disgust with this article for pages. However, I will bite my tongue ... hard.

First of all, when will the American public realize that laws which limit natural human desires (drinking, smoking, etc.) produce even more harmful side effects? Look at the prohibition attempt in the 1920s: violence soared, stress levels crept to dangerous levels, and the Mafia basked in all of its glory. The government was quick to realize, thankfully, that outlawing alcohol was not the answer. Experience demonstrates how people respond to limiting ultimatums - rebellion. If individuals want to ingest harmful substances ... let them be. If I want to smoke marijuana, how does that harm, or even bother, Kristen?

Secondly, Kristen says, "We must then address the root problems that drive people to drug use." Allow me to retort! Drug use has been a common part of human civilization for thousands of years. What makes law officials and people like Kristen believe that we can, all of a sudden, snuff out drug use? While we are at it, why don't we eliminate teen sex, cigarette smoking and under-age drinking? Sound illogical? That's because it is.

Lastly, I would like to know whether thinkers like Kristen feel alcohol consumption should be illegal. If so, refer to the failure of prohibition. If not, they are practicing hypocrisy. How can alcohol be acceptable while marijuana is condemned. Yes, I admit the smoking of marijuana does produce certain side effects. However, it can not be argued that these side effects are any more harmful than those of alcohol consumption. Kristen writes, "What we do not know [about the marijuana plant] might very well kill us." Does she realize how many different cultures over the past few thousand years have enjoyed this horticultural gift? Additionally, the use of marijuana has never been linked directly to cause death, unlike alcohol and other, more intense drugs. That's a fact.

I now release my tongue and encourage those like Kristen to open their minds slightly - let in some light. Try not to enforce your beliefs on others, especially when their actions are harming no one.

By Bryce Zeagler (letter)
Arizona Daily Wildcat
April 2, 1997