The Issue of Drug Legalization: Pros and Cons

The issue of legalization is a difficult one to tackle because "drugs" encompass a diverse group of substances that have a wide range of effects on society and the individual. According to the U.S. government's system of classification, marijuana and crack cocaine are both schedule one drugs; however, no one can pretend that these two present the same level of danger to one's health or community. Thus the question arises: should all drugs be legalized or decriminalized?

The fact is that people will be able to buy drugs whether they are legal or not. I have even heard some teenagers say it is easier to buy pot than alcohol. No need for a fake id or an older friend to go to the convenience store; most dealers, I would assume, have no scruples as to selling to minors. The issue of government sanctioned selling of dangerous, highly addictive narcotics such as crack, heroin, and PCP becomes then an ethical issue. Some people argue that tax revenue from drug sales would help our economy, and even I would claim that taking out the factor of "street sales" could dramatically reduce gun crimes and homicides in America. Yet if these particular narcotics are legalized, we essentially would be contributing to the addiction and self-destruction of every single person that purchases them. The effects of the drugs I have mentioned cannot be controlled by the user. Friends, family, values, religion, logic, all crumble in the face of a drug addiction. 8 out of 10 people entering rehab for substance abuse do not stay sober. Although I think the "war on drugs" is not as effective as it could be, relinquishing the battle would be worse. Can we honestly say we would let a drug be sold that is probably being purchased instead of diapers for an infant child? I say no.