Paper
Mary Jane: The Devil Weed
ABSTRACT: This paper, entitled “Mary Jane: The Devil Weed?” attempts to
examine what we know about marijuana and what problems are associated with its
use. The paper examines briefly the history of marijuana legislation,
marijuana’s known effects, and conclusions about its danger.
Early in this century, the government waged a war of terrorism on marijuana,
or cannabis sativa. “By 1937, forty-six states had laws against the use of
marijuana, and its use had already been made a criminal offense under federal
law” (Jaffe, 659). Andrews pointed out that “not until some time in the early
1930s did the Louisianna legislature pass a state regulation making use of the
drug illegal” (5). Jaffe noted that “since the early 1900s, marifuana has been
considered the one drug that might introduce the susceptible to hard drugs.”
Jaffe pointed out that “since about 1950…. smoking of marijuana has been
linked statistically to the use of other illicit drugs….Most observers have
concluded that the link is sociological rather than biological and…marijuana
is a marker for individuals who are more prone to seek new experiences even when
these violate social norms and local laws.”
Andrews related that “sensational newspaper stories relating…to crime is
generally held to be accountable for the sudden enactment of a law prohibiting
its use.” He went on to note that “users were often subject to heavy penalties-
-up to life imprisonment in Texas.” “After caffeine, nicotine and alcohol,
marijuana is the fourth most popular abused substance” (O’Brien, Cohen, Evans,
and Fine, 175).
does marijuana deserve this reputation? We must first consider what it is
and what effects it has. The active ingredient is tetrahydocannabinol, or THC
(Andrews). THC, found only in the female plant, produces a mild euphoric effect.
Marijuana is considered a hallucinogen, a Schedule 1 drup, under the Controlled
Substances Act of 1970 (O’Brien, Cohen, Evans, and Fine, 177). A Schedule 1
drug means there is no known medical use. Recently “a new drug application was
approved for THC (Marinol) to be used therapeutically for control of nausea and
vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy” (Jaffe, 663). This moved THC from
Schedule 1 to 2 (medical use despite potential for abuse).
How dangerous is marijuana? Jaffe notes that “any performance test shows
impairment….although no distinctive biochemical changes have been found in
humans.” Andrews writes, “Physical effects of marijuana use is probably the
major question….The answer? None.” O’Brien, Cohen, Evans, and Fine, reported
that the National Institute on Drug Abuse found, “Marijunan now available is
five to 10 times more potent than it was a half dozen years ago” (178). While
these statements may not sound conclusive, the Institute of Medicine, according
to O’Brien, Cohen, Evans, and Fine, found, “What little we know now about the
effects of marijuana on human health–and all we have reasons to suspect–
justifies serious national concern.” They noted, “More research has
demonstrated marked disturbances in depth perception, time judgment, and
coordination during cannabis use. Coupled with surveys that that indicate that
many traffic accidents occur to people using cannabis derivatives, these facts
raise a significant public health concern.”
Is marijuana “devil weed”? Though marijuana “does not produce physical
dependence,” it does produce “psychological dependence and the euphoric and
sedative effects can result” (O’Brien, Cohen, Evans, and Fine, 179). They noted
also, “Abstinence may result in feelings of irritability, nervousness, or
insomnia.” Jaffe observed that cannabis “may directly produce an acute panic
reaction, a toxic delirium,and accute paranoid state, or acute mania… [It may}
lead to sociopathy or even to the so-called AMOTIVATIONAL SYNDROME... [and]
aggravate schizophrenia” (661).
Again we ask, Is marijuana “devil weed”? In conclusion we must say that
marijuana might be, but the evidence is far from conclusive and far from
complete. That marijuana is a public health problem is clear. Marijuana is a
dangerous substance for individuals to use and operate a motor vehicle of any
kind. That marijuana is potentially dangerous and destructive is clear.
Are there legitimate medical uses? There are some. It has been found to
redce intraocular pressures in individuals with glaucoma by 45% (Jaffe, 662). It
has been used as an antiemitic for individuals taking cancer chemotherapy.
Andrews concluded that “medical research indicates no physiological effect of
any severity from use of the drug. Thus it has been assumed marijuana is
harmless” (12).
But is marijuana “devil weed”? The answers are mixed. The conclusions
uncertain. Andrews’ answer is probably the most accurate: “Perhaps so. Perhaps
not. Certainly more research is necessar.” In other words, most of the
reserach and most of the scientists have indicated that all the answers are not
in yet.
WORKS CITED
Anrews, Matthew. (1972). The Parents Guide to Drugs (Doubleday & Co.).
pp. 4-12. Jaffe, Jerome H. (1995). Encylopedia of Drugs & Alcohol
(Simon & Schuster).
pp. 659-663. O’Brien, R., Cohen, S., Evans, G., and Fine, J., (Eds.).
(1992). The
Enclopedia of Drug Abuse (Facts on File, Inc.). pp. 175-179.
Другие работы по теме:
Maggie Obituary Essay Research Paper Margaret Johnson
Maggie Obituary Essay, Research Paper Margaret Johnson, only daughter of Mary Murphy: found dead in the East River at age 23 Margaret Johnson, also called Maggie, was a successful seamstress and the only daughter of Mary Murphy died on November 19 in the East River where she was spotted floating atop the freezing cold water.
Satan Lives Essay Research Paper I am
Satan Lives Essay, Research Paper I am here to let you know that satan is real. I am writing you to tell you that hell is real. I want you to know that regardless of what you think or believe that hell and the devil are as real as the chair you are sitting in. I was attacked in my house by the devil, I was paralized with fear and could not move a single finger.
The Autobiography Of Miss Jane Pittman Essay
, Research Paper In the novel The Autobiography Of Miss Jane Pittman, there were many different stories about JanePittman’s life. In the movie there were not as many stories as the novel, but they were still quite
Jane Eyre Essay Research Paper Vol ICh11Vol
Jane Eyre Essay, Research Paper Vol ICh.11-Vol II 7 Jane?s arrival at the Thornfield Charlotte Bronte?s Jane Eyre displays three types of relationships possessing different purposes. These connections are established at Thornfield after Jane becomes a governess and accepts the position at the estate.
Marijuana Paper Essay Research Paper MarijuanaMarijuana is
Marijuana Paper Essay, Research Paper Marijuana Marijuana is an illegal narcotic drug and is a green or gray mixture of dried, shredded flowers and leaves from the hemp plant Cannabis sativa. It is also known by its many slang names like pot, weed, Mary Jane, dope and chronic. The main active chemical in marijuana is THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol).
Jane Eyre 8 Essay Research Paper Blanche
Jane Eyre 8 Essay, Research Paper Blanche Ingram: Villain? Blanche Ingram is the most important woman, other than Jane Eyre, in the novel. Arguably, she is the most important antagonist in this book. It is difficult to fathom how an absolutely horrid, conceited, venal, apathetic creature could be so vital to the book; but take her away, the motivation, conflict, and character itself crumbles.
Jane Erye Essay Research Paper Jane EyreMr
Jane Erye Essay, Research Paper Jane Eyre Mr. Edward Rochester is faced with a tough situation. Mr. Rochester is married to Bertha Mason, but he has fallen in love with Jane Eyre. Edward Rochester is a member of the British gentry. His avaricious father tricks him into marrying Bertha Mason, a rich woman with a family history of mental illness.
Jane Eyre 7 Essay Research Paper In
Jane Eyre 7 Essay, Research Paper In Charlotte Bront Jane Eyre, the main character faces many struggles. One of the struggles she faces is the temptation to run away with the man she loves and be his mistress or to marry a man who offers her the contrary where it would be a legal and highly respectable marriage but with no genuine love.
Mary Rowlandson Essay Research Paper Mary Rowlandson
Mary Rowlandson Essay, Research Paper Mary Rowlandson wrote a narrative about hardships she faced during her captivity, in a journal. Despite her suffering she thanked God for her life and his mercy. Rowlandson wrote during the colonial period and is an example of a puritan writer for many reasons.
Jane Addams Essay Research Paper Founder of
Jane Addams Essay, Research Paper Founder of Hull-House in Chicago, first president of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, and co-winner of the 1931 Nobel Peace Prize, Jane Addams was a dedicated crusader for
Jane Addams Essay Research Paper Jane AddamsJane
Jane Addams Essay, Research Paper Jane Addams Jane Addams was born in Cedarville, Illinois on September 6, 1860,and the eighth of nine children. Her father, John Addams, was a prosperous miller
Miss Jane Pittman Essay Research Paper Book
Miss Jane Pittman Essay, Research Paper Book #1 In book 1 it started out by the Secesh and the Yankees having a big war. Then Tracey met this Yankee named Brown and he helped free the slaves. Then Brown gave Tracey the nickname Jane. The slave owner freed Tracey (Jane) and all the other slaves. Once the Proclamation papers were signed the slaves headed up toward Ohio.
Emily Jane Bronte Essay Research Paper Emily
Emily Jane Bronte Essay, Research Paper Emily Jane Bronte Emily Jane Bronte remains a mystery. Very little is known about her. There is little information, and much of what we have is contradictory. She is the author
Marijuana 2 Essay Research Paper MarijuanaMarijuana is
Marijuana 2 Essay, Research Paper MarijuanaMarijuana is the name given to any drug made from the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. Different forms of this drug are known by different names all around the world. Some of these names are kif in Morocco, dagga in South Africa, and ganja in India. In the last decade marijuana has gotten many street names like grass, pot, tea, reefer, weed, and Mary Jane.
Jane Eyre Essay Research Paper Jane EyreJane
Jane Eyre Essay, Research Paper Jane Eyre Jane Eyre was originally a book, by Charlotte Bronte. It has now been made into a movie. There are two versions of the movie the BPC version, which is the British version and the American version. Both movies are very good and tell the story different. The British version is more like the book.
Jane Eyre Essay Research Paper Jane EyreAfter
Jane Eyre Essay, Research Paper Jane Eyre After reading the novel Jane Eyre, I found that a lot of things that happened to her would have been different if she had been attractive. Obviously her treatment by Mrs. Reed and company would have been improved. She would have been considered delicate, and people would not have abused her.
Jane Eyre Essay Research Paper Jane EyreCharlotte
Jane Eyre Essay, Research Paper Jane Eyre Charlotte Bronte 407 pages Setting: England, Early 1800s Point of View: First person Jane Eyre, the main character, is sent out of the drawing room by her Aunt, Mrs.
Jane Eyre Vs Well I Have Lost
You. Essay, Research Paper Comparison Between: Jane Eyre and the poem “Well, I Have Lost You”… I believe that there are many parallels between the book: Jane Eyre and the poem “Well, I Have Lost You”. For example, in the poem, the author says, “I have lost you; and I lost you fairly; In my own way, and with my full consent.” The author tells of a woman who loved a man dearly, and unfortunately, because of that love, had to leave him.
Jane Eyre EssayIndependence Essay Research Paper Jane
Jane Eyre Essay-Independence Essay, Research Paper Jane Eyre, a novel written by Charlotte Bronte, is about a young girl named Jane that struggles to discover her identity. Jane’s a girl who is “unhappy, very unhappy”(23). She grows up with relatives that treat her unfairly because her diseased family was not wealthy.
Jane Eyre Independence Essay Research Paper In
Jane Eyre: Independence Essay, Research Paper In Charlotte Bronte s famous book Jane Eyre, a girl was portrayed that was growing up around the turn of the nineteenth century. Jane was an orphan with no family or friends. She was mistreated and misunderstood by the people around her. Jane seemed doomed for a life of failure, until she decided to go against all odds and stand up for the life of success she deserved.
Crucible Lying Essay Research Paper Notes for
Crucible Lying Essay, Research Paper Notes for an essay on human weaknesses that are prominent in the Crucible Lying (pg. 10 – Abigail Williams) Abigail lied to Parris when he asked if she had
Austen Jane 2
Austen, Jane “Pride And Prejudice” Essay, Research Paper Jane Austen’s intricate novel exhibits dry, subtle humor. She paints her genteel and refined characters with a
Jane Austen Essay Research Paper Jane AustenJane
Jane Austen Essay, Research Paper Jane Austen Jane Austen was born in 1775 in Stevenson, England. It was there were she started writing her first novel First impressions which was renamed Pride and Prejudice . She wrote it when she was only 14 years old. She and her Father turned it in to the publishers but they rejected it.
Jane Eyre Essay Research Paper The ambiguity
Jane Eyre Essay, Research Paper The ambiguity of Jane Eyre with respect to gender and class actually makes it more interesting to read. It struggles with sensitive subjects, and sometimes it fails to defy societal convention. But its failures are often as interesting as its successes. It doesn’t pretend to offer an ultimate truth of personal freedom.
Jane Eyre Essay Research Paper Jane EyreIn
Jane Eyre Essay, Research Paper Jane Eyre In the novel Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, we are introduced to Jane, the orphan protagonist of the story. When the novel first begins, she is an isolated, powerless ten-year old living with an aunt and her cousins whom do not like her. Jane feels alienated from the Reed family; therefore she spends much of her time alone.
Jane Eyre Essay Research Paper Jane Eyre 2
Jane Eyre Essay, Research Paper Jane Eyre of Charlotte Bronte?s Jane Eyre, develops drastically within the first few chapters of the novel. Her environment was a major influential factor in Jane?s development.
Mansfield Park Essay Research Paper Mansfield Park
Mansfield Park Essay, Research Paper Mansfield Park This novel, originally published in 1814, is the first of Jane Austen’s novels not to be a revised version of one of her pre-1800 writings. Mansfield Park has sometimes been
Marijuana Essay Research Paper Marijuana also called
Marijuana Essay, Research Paper Marijuana (also called mary-jane, pot, grass, weed, doobey and reefer) is the most commonly used illegal street drug in North America. Marijuana is a depressant. It is one of the cheapest illegal drugs in the world. It is also one of the easiest drugs to get. Because of this it is one of the most dangerous drugs.
Weed Essay Research Paper WeedWether you call
Weed Essay, Research Paper Weed Wether you call it Hemp, Mary Jane, Pot, Weed; it doesn’t matter. It is still Cannabis Sativa, or cannabis for short. And it is still illegal. The use of
Something About Mary Essay Research Paper Something
Something About Mary Essay, Research Paper Something about Mary Its a comedy film, that came to Spain in November of the 1998. It was directed by the Farinelli brothers. And his main stars are: Cameron Diaz (Mary), Matt Dylon (a strange detective) and Ben Stiller (Ted).
The Crucible 2 Essay Research Paper In
The Crucible 2 Essay, Research Paper In the book, The Crucible, Abigail Williams and her childish friends take advantage of the situation in their hometown of Salem, Massachusetts. At the time, there was a lot of tension about the discussion of witches and virtually anyone who was accused of being a witch was proven a witch.
Mary Jane Essay Research Paper Mary JaneLegalization
Mary Jane Essay, Research Paper Mary Jane Legalization and or decriminalization of marijuana has been sought after, unsuccessfully, for the last 62 some-odd years by an ever-growing number of people. These people stem from all walks of life from high school kids to top-level business executives to doctors to musicians and actors to senators and politicians.