Ethical Issue Involving Marijuan Legalization

Ethical issues involving Legalizing Marijuana
Jerriett Hand
SOC 120 Introduction to Ethics & Social Responsibility
Instructor: Denise Antoon
October 25, 2012

Nearly 80 million Americans have used Marijuana on at least on one occasion, making it the third most popular recreational drug behind alcohol and tobacco. Despite harsh laws against its use, nearly 11 million Americans consume the drug regularly and 20 million within the last year according to government surveys.   Whether the use is for medicinal purposes or simply for recreation, the topic of legalization addresses ethical concerns as well.   I will be outlining not only the reasons for use of marijuana but the benefits of its consumption as well. I will be applying the classical theory of utilitarianism to resolve the issue of legalization while also using the perspective of ethical egoism that this issue addresses, including my personal view of these theories concerning the legalization of marijuana.
Like all illegal drugs, many would view marijuana unethical because of the harmful side effects. Contrary to that Marijuana also has many medical benefits. Marijuana suppresses the immune system, damages the central nerve system, and can be an intoxicant that increases the chances of injury by accident. Despite the harmful views of marijuana, the medical community has adopted the use of marijuana for medical purposes. The main chemical “THC” (Tetra-hydro-cannibol) is effective at relieving nausea and vomiting in patients being treated for cancer or AIDS. Marijuana is also effective at treating anorexia in appetite loss.
When it comes to applying morality to legalizing marijuana, I believe that this type if subject raises many ethical issues and ethical problems. Ethical issues, which is a problem or situation that requires a person or organization to choose between alternatives that must be evaluated as right (ethical) or wrong (unethical) draws many issues because everyone has different views....