Marijuana In America Essay

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The concern of marijuana use in America is constantly shifting. From being completely prohibited, to some states making it useable for medical and recreational use, we can see how the world is changing. Does the media help to play a role in this factor? Does the media shape public opinion and influence law and policy? There are some issues that will be discussed throughout this paper. By definition, marijuana is a tall plant with a stiff upright stem, divided serrated leaves, and glandular hairs. It is used to produce hemp fiber and used as a psychotropic drug (dictionary.com). “Marijuana is known by a wide variety of alternative names, including, pot, weed, and grass. It is illegal in most countries, although some nations have lowered the…show more content…
A schedule one drug is defined as having no medical value, and a high potential for abuse. Schedule one drugs are the most dangerous drugs of all drug schedules and marijuana is listed under along side heroin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ecstasy, and methaqualone. Marijuana has been classified as a substance one drug since the 1970’s and supporters have been fighting to lower this drug to another schedule. The argument perceived by the media is that this drug is not addictive or dangerous, and there should be more scientific research done before labeling this as a highly abusive…show more content…
Getting the appropriate message to the media is such a valuable tool in reaching out and informing the public. Marijuana is a huge topic in the media and has been changing the minds of many people over the years. Medical marijuana is a great example. Patients are portrayed as being life-long users in fear of becoming ‘addicts’ because the news depicts people who use as being an addict or a criminal. Most people use marijuana for relief from serious medical conditions, and then stop using

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