The weak anti-pot argument of Barry Young

Barry Young, self-proclaimed "conservatarian" made an argument against marijuana this morning. The crux of his argument was that since there is no way to "control" marijuana (in the manner that pharmaceuticals are controlled), it cannot be considered "medicine". There is some truth to that-marijuana cannot be called a medicine by his definition. However, it is well understood that the broad definition of a "drug" is any substance that, when absorbed into the body of a living organism, alters normal bodily function.

The latter definition is far more accurate. Even food can be considered a drug (and rightly so) because when absorbed, it alters the body's chemistry.

To be fair, later in the monologue, Young said that it should be either legalized or not. This is a reasonable stance. At this point, the evidence, as well as ethical, economic, and moral concerns, seem to show that the "war on drugs" should be ended.

Powerful quotes

We have a choice to make once and for all: between the empire and the spiritual and physical salvation of our people. No road for the people will ever be open unless the government completely gives up control over us or any aspect of our lives. It has led the country into an abyss and it does not know the way out.

~ Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, as quoted by Pravda (1986)