H 30°, L 16° | Tomorrow: I can’t stand pot. Just can’t.
It’s one of my prejudices. Whenever someone steps next to me and offers me some or asks me for some, you can almost warm yourself with the contempt radiating from my glare. If someone tries to convince me of some argument after having a few hits, they’re merely a fly in the room, lazily buzzing around my face.
That’s also probably what some people who saw those marching to the Capitol on Sunday as part of the Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival thought. Especially when the protesters got to the Capitol and ran out of batteries for their megaphone.
Most politicians don’t take pot smokers or their position for the legalization of marijuana, be it for medicinal or recreational reasons, seriously. Most simply bat away comparisons to cigarettes or alcohol usage, talking about marijuana as a gateway drug or its potential negative effect on the “youth of America.”
The arguments for legalizing marijuana are numerous: It provides medical benefits for glaucoma, cancer and multiple sclerosis patients; it’s not a destructive drug if it’s not abused; it would take a hell of a lot of funding away from a war on drugs that most of America has forgotten about and that most sensible people would say has been a waste of money.
But yet, we largely avoid debate. Medical marijuana certainly has more traction than full-scale legalization, but even that comes with a stigma.
Pot just doesn’t get talked about. Back at the online town hall Barack Obama held earlier this year, an online questioner asked Obama if he thought legalizing marijuana would help grow the economy. Not only did Obama answer that it wouldn’t — without offering his typical wonky, professorial explanations of why it wouldn’t — the media outlets covering it thought it was odd that he actually addressed the question.
It’s not a major issue. It’s relatively harmless in the grand scope of national issues and the U.S. Department of Justice has already made it clear they aren’t going after those caught with medical marijuana.
So why do most people dismiss the question of legalization — or rather, invalidate the legitimacy of the matter to begin with — without so much of a consideration of the issue?
Because those people are potheads, that’s why. They go around, shuffling through life, slowly mumbling about how their freedoms are taken away when they barely utilize that freedom to do anything other than head to the store for some Cheetos.
Sound offensive? Yeah, it should — it’s the same way that every legislator and elected official treats people asking to legalize it.
We can sit here and say those people blocking the lines of discussion on the issue have reasonable critiques on marijuana, citing (for example) scientific studies that show links between marijuana and dementia. But even if reasonable arguments against legalization exist, they mean nothing to the representative who just thinks, “Fucking stoners,” and dismisses pro-legalization folks with a terse nod to the many positive uses for hemp.
This isn’t just a problem with pot though. It affects any stereotypically leftist issue that comes to the forefront. There’s a reason leftists are stereotyped as “pot-smoking hippies” by their opponents. For who needs to address their concerns about the war, poverty and labor rights when their leaders formulate their opinions in an intoxicated state?
Yet, though opinions appear less credible if formed in a haze, they shouldn’t be dismissed simply because the people pushing them seem strange.
Thankfully, some members of the state Legislature understand that. Well, somewhat. The Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act proposed by Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Madison, and Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Middleton, might actually pass this time around, which would allow those with prescriptions to grow a small amount of marijuana without repercussions.
That’s great, but will we ever have someone in the U.S. Congress seriously campaign for legalization?
No, of course not. We have enough problems in this country — the war in Afghanistan, the financial crisis, the BCS system — to waste time on the issue of pot. So for the time being marijuana advocates may have to settle for medical legalization.
But if medicinal marijuana doesn’t lead toward more lenient legislative attitudes and doesn’t prove that pot isn’t any more dangerous than alcohol (or any more helpful), perhaps the legalization advocates need a good PR person and an image makeover. Get a former legislator who’s as clean as a whistle — and moderate, too — to start advocating for it in public, and build a marketing campaign and new public interest group around it. Secure some sympathetic wealthy elite to fund your campaign. Then unveil your slogan: “You can’t free your mind without freedom of choice.”
Jason Smathers ([email protected]) is a first-year graduate student in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
IP hash: 477a6b2a
This article was hilarious. It’s obvious the author doesn’t know anything about marijuana or marijuana users. He does nothing more than to perpetuate the false concept of the lazy pothead. If he had any sense or paid any attention, it’s the activities of the potheads who are motivated to get this harmless plant RE-legalized. It’s the hard working potheads that donate in the millions of dollars to these organizations every year. Where do you think that money comes from? People who work for a living or lazy potheads that don’t do anything?
If people like Jason Smathers would pull their heads from their rear-ends, they’d recognize the obvious instead of believing and perpetuating these ignorant ideas. You may not like the relaxed nature of some potheads but there’s no reason to demonize us all that way. Stop watching so much television, get out there, and meet some real potheads. You’ll find your views to be very flawed. Start by treating us like human beings, first.
IP hash: c50d9335
If you had read the rest of the article you would have realized that he did, in fact, point out the sarcasm of the previous paragraphs and is actually on a pro-marijuana stance. Read the paper before you reply with scathing comments.
IP hash: b0dc10ce
hmm….you might not do drugs, but your articles sure make me want to turn to them.
IP hash: 0d04c3d3
This article doesn’t make any sense I am still not sure if the author is for or against the legalization o marijuana. Touting that politician need to keep an open mind then calls potheads Lazy and demonizes them. WTF?
IP hash: 745730bb
Let me just try this again.
I’m for legalization. But I also recognize that I share the very same prejudices that every person who votes against this legislation does. I don’t like pot, I don’t like talking to people who are stoned, and in the grand scheme of things, I’m incredibly close-minded about this. But I also recognize that the arguments for pot are probably more numerous and convincing than the arguments against pot.
My point is that is legalization has any chance, it’s through changing the perception that prejudiced folks like myself have. If that seems confusing, I understand, but I’m with you � I’m an ignorant fool when it comes to pot. But I can see my views are based on gut feelings rather than reason.
IP hash: b0dc10ce
If it wasn’t clear in the article, then you didn’t do your job as a journalist. Try as you might to explain it on the message board.
IP hash: 1af2836e
You should know by now that prejudices are stupid.
IP hash: bc3190c8
I think your point would have been better understood if you DIDN’T write the article. One, it makes absolutely no sense. Two, if your so closed minded and not educated on the issue, why write about it? That makes you a lazy journalist and a ignorant human being. To be honest, this article looks like it took you 20 minutes to do before it had to be turned in and you just pulled the first that came to your mind out of you behind.
Although I think your an ignorant retard, I’m going to give you a suggestion. If you’ve heard people talking about the video The Union or have heard of it at all, you should watch it. Even if you haven’t, watch it. Anyone who discriminates against potheads and has negative view on pot needs to watch this. No, this is not a documentary made by a bunch of stoners. It’s a documentary including national officials and it explains marijuana use throughout our history. (By the way, this is going to make you feel like a complete idiot, because in fact, politicians and our government DO care about the many uses of hemp)
I wish you the best of luck educating and broadening your horizons in life (as you seem very enclosed in what your childhood has taught you)
One Love,
A “Lazy” Stoner
IP hash: 6ee7f1f4
the reason that reform doesn’t get anywhere is because of people like you who judge people who smoke. you have a professed prejudice against grass and the people who use it. it keeps you from having a sober mind about the possibilities.
your entire piece here is you taking turns emphasizing your contempt for any/all hippie-leaning culture, then trying to balance it by showing you’re hip to the reasons legalization is legitimate. you’re telling us nothing, but you are unwittingly exhibiting the crux of the problem.
the problem is you. prejudiced, close-minded people like you. you are the kind of person that stands stubbornly in the face of a cultural wave. you are related to the man who’s against gay marriage, who laughs at animal rights activists, and so on. you cling to old ideas, stereotypes and peculiar personal frustrations rather than work with where the undeniable force of culture is headed.
IP hash: 745730bb
Uh…yeah. That was the point.
Of course I’m prejudiced. Of course I make judgments on pot smokers for no real reason. THAT’S THE POINT! People like me ARE the problem and the reason why legislation doesn’t move. It wasn’t unwitting, anonymous. I knew exactly what I was doing.
IP hash: ed891e98
I can’t stand alcohol. Just can’t. Boozy, lazy eyed, fellows who tout nonsense due to their decreased inhibitions bore bore bore me. I wish that it was re-prohibited so at least pot being illegal would make sense. And booze may smell worse than weed. That is a staunch toss up. But smoking a joint never made me a complete stumbly, drunk driving douche. Alcohol kills marriages and livers and cars everyday. Who does pot hurt? You know what is a little fly buzzing around my room? Hmmmm. Its you, Jason Smathers. And flies don’t last long in my house.
IP hash: 3422a6b4
Thanks Danielle! It’s about time someone touts the aggravation of dealing with drunks vs potheads. I work in the liquor industry and rarely drink. I first noticed the advantages of marijuana in college. It was easier to relax and unwind with a quick joint instead of a bottle of wine that left me amped up ad ready to go out instead of to bed. As I grew into my career I noticed fellow employees who repeatedly hit the “bar scene” were always hung over or ill. I was always fresh with new ideas. I escalated straight to the top.while my drunkard peers were caught up in drama and gossip that came from the “social scene”.
Please don’t misunderstand.It is not as if I have no life. Quite the contrary. My house has an open door and you wouldn’t believe the professionals that stop by after work for a “smoke” instead of a “cocktail”. You know…those slackers…doctors, lawyers, business owners and even neighbors in my upper middle class neighborhood. I have adult beverages available as well but why poison my body only to possibly make bad decisions and definitely pay physically tomorrow.
Those who believe pot heads all fit one stereotype are discriminating and ignorant. They are commenting upon something they obviously know nothing about except what they have been told, read or seen. Considering marijuana is illegal, The average professional is not going to jeopardize their position by advocating publicly because we do not have the time. We are the one’s that donate to the cause.
I do agree the face of marijuana needs to change. I haven’t shared a joint with a dirty hippie since my college years.No desire! Maybe that would open the eyes of the ignorant drunks? Slug another Guiness and find another toic you do not understand to write about so you can make a mockery of your career before completing your education!!!
IP hash: 75028d4f
HEY! come on now…..some of us like to smoke weed and drink intermittently! Let’s not demonize the booze….
IP hash: e744b8f0
What do you mean by “clean as a whistle”? You mean we need an advocate who doesn’t smoke pot? Such as U.S. Congressman Ron Paul who seriously campaigns for legalization and maintains that he has never smoked (one of many current and former U.S. congressmen with such a position)? Did you not feel like mentioning these people, or is it that you are totally ignorant of the politics of the topic you just wrote a piece on?
It’s clear from your article that YOU are the one who subscribes to stereotypes. You have no idea what you’re talking about and just assume there’s a certain political landscape based on your ignorant stereotypical views of the subject. You may automatically think me a fly who’s opinion doesn’t count because I enjoy the herb, but that doesn’t negate fact that you appear to be a complete jackass when you write about subjects you have no knowledge of.
Learn something the subject at hand or find a new subject.
IP hash: 5ed0bfbc
I just read this high with kraft mac and cheese overcooking on my stove. take that, mr. smathers!
IP hash: 7a9e19e9
Yeah well you shouldn’t judge other people
IP hash: e744b8f0
Glad to see you respond. Understand that when you insult people, they can get upset (and fling insults back). So, now that you know there are numerous U.S. congressmen who support legalization, does that actually change your views of it?
Good example: http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/D?d111:3:./temp/~bdKZ7s:@@@P|/bss/111search.html|
IP hash: 745730bb
No. One, because that was introduced last year too and never got out of committee, and I doubt this one will either, Two, because I think you need a Senator to step up to start making waves. Congressmen introduce bizarre resolutions and ideas all the time, but a Senatorial move creates sparks on the national stage.
IP hash: f4a66fe7
The point and purpose of the article were very clear to me and I agree with the author. There lies a split even within the pro-legalization crowd. I find myself riding the fence. The angry Deadhead with dreads shaking my fist a the brick wall, and the 37 year old short hair whose voice is still hoarse from all that screaming years ago. Its the difference between NORML and the MPP. Captain Stoner and Capitol Hill lobbyist.
IP hash: 1513044d
The author of this ridiculous and conflicting article seems to not understand the fundamental issues of legalisation and what it means to medical use of cannabis.
IP hash: d2ad2fdf
George Washington Started this country smoking pot…nuf said…
IP hash: 5f4f73d3
3 AM commenters crack me up. Dude, lay off the brownies and get some sleep…
IP hash: b2ae9746
It’s funny to watch all the pot enthusiasts come on here and bash the article. Pot shouldn’t be legalized just to keep these stoners whining. It’s better than MTV.
IP hash: e382aff4
As an advocate for fellow medical marijuana patients in Iowa and one who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2004, I am very offended by this insufferable, informal young fool who resorts to stereotypes in a lame attempt to express his anger toward God’s perfect plant.
IP hash: 97dd0620
Marijuana is not a gateway drug. Stupidity is.
IP hash: 291ab360
This article was obviously written by a person who actually drinks the koolaide that politicians serve him without even looking into it. He asserts that people who smoke pot are lazy and shiftless, bumbling their way through life. I got news for you, that ain’t true. There is a tremendous number of people who smoke pot that go to work everyday, pay their taxes and cause no trouble in the world. For example, the last three presidents. If the author thinks these presidents only smoked it once he’s a fool, is ignorant or got his head buried in the sand along with the politicians. The obamanation even admitted to snorting coke, but he ain’t in prison for it, is he? Nope, he’s only the most powerful man in the world. How’s that for a lazy pothead?
IP hash: efa31ec7
Tell me why it is “close-minded” to hate pot? Is it “close-minded” to be a vegetarian? Is it “close-minded” to abstain from alcohol? If other people want to do pot, whatever, I don’t care. Not my thing though.
However, those of us who don’t like it really don’t need to be lectured on how we are wrong and totally ignorant.(because shoving your lifestyle choices in other people’s faces as superior to their’s REALLY makes them want to support legalization.) I get your point Smathers, and would even say you don’t need to be so defensive.
IP hash: fb8e3e11
So you (the author) believe that the BCS system is a bigger problem in the US, than the fact that sick people cannot have access to the medication they need. You would rather have people on oxycotin, when they do not want prescription pain killers. You sir just let us all know, how your ignorance has led you to be part of the problem. In these days where we are finding out that we can truly help people, you call out “pothead”. If you even tried to study the subject and why it was even made illegal, you might change your tune of political tool. People like you grouping everyone into the “typical stoner” is exactly why I fight this fight everyday. You should be ashamed of yourself and your ignorant article.
IP hash: 3cf4a026
its called sarcasm, sir, and its really not that hard to understand.
IP hash: 89a2829d
Functional pot smokers do exist, you know. Working in journalism I would venture to guess you know quite a few.
IP hash: 1d8ec08e
The author is a complete dolt.
IP hash: 711c231a
What is this guy on, Ritalin? It’s alright Jason. There are other careers.
IP hash: 8a0157c6
Cogent article, Mr. Smathers. Nice way of looking past your own prejudice and affirming the need to end prohibition. Perhaps the true resolution to this issue lies in addressing the prejudice of misconception itself. Why is it not discussed? I believe it is because it disturbs religious fundamentalist’s sensibilities; and therefore shall remain anathema and a permanently tabled issue.
Is it too late for a second-stage enlightenment to kick in? Seems we could use some forward thinkers to bring us once more out of a modern dark age. Keep writing, sir. Some are listening.
IP hash: e220d3a7
Smoke too much weed and you might fall asleep.
Drink too much booze and you will DIE!
‘nuff said.
IP hash: 49e4c23e
This makes the author Jason Smathers a totally ignorant tard…
“No. One, because that was introduced last year too and never got out of committee, and I doubt this one will either, Two, because I think you need a Senator to step up to start making waves. Congressmen introduce bizarre resolutions and ideas all the time, but a Senatorial move creates sparks on the national stage.”
Smathers answered this question:
“So, now that you know there are numerous U.S. congressmen who support legalization, does that actually change your views of it?”
Wow! Smathers you’re a freaking moron!!! Ever hear of Ron Paul? I believe he was running for GOP Presidential candidate in 2008.
NOTE: UW Badger Herald. Please don’t publish opinions of arrogant pricks.
So now can I finally chime in…
I AM TELLING YOU… Jason Smathers… TO SHUT UP!!!
IP hash: 0150007f
I understand what you are saying in your article however I think that you are very judgmental and small minded. To say you don’t want to talk to stoners well, I just don’t want to talk to arrogant or dumb people. I live in LA and know plenty people who are incredibly smart and with professional jobs who smoke pot. Gateway drug? You’ve watched reefer madness one too many times, believing all the propaganda, alcohol is more of a gateway to bad decisions than pot. It’s all BS, I’d rather my son raid my pot stash than my alcohol cabinet. To your point though I will say that as a pot smoker I don’t want the dumb stoners highjacking the cause for us reasonable pot smokers and we do need more intelligent people standing up.
IP hash: d1a888e1
Great article. I’m one of those loud potheads and it’s good to see that some people are finally looking past their prejudices to make rational decisions.
IP hash: 36f17327
I love it. Half of the people don’t see what he’s talking about, and the other half (those that do) want to pontificate. He said it all in the last paragraph, folks
IP hash: 8845a8b7
The posts on this comment board only serve to enhance Smathers’ claims about potheads. Put simply, you do not understand his argument at all.
His argument is quite simple. It is the following: “I am prejudiced towards potheads and most legislators are too. I want pot to be legalized but it wont be if wacky potheads continue to advocate for the cause b/c they drown out the rational arguments for its legalization.”
Note that there is no normative argument here, so all of you questioning Smathers’ sense of morality are misguided. His argument simply outlines what he sees as the strategic failure of one piece of legislation.
While I agree that this piece is written with an air of lofty arrogance, the focus of the article is explaining why a movement isn’t working, while abstaining from focusing on judgments about the movement itself.
IP hash: 627844b9
The pro-gay marriage people by being either man haters or effeminate nancies are hurting their cause they should shut up
The pro-health care people are hurting their cause by being sick and the people that would drain the system should shut up and let healthy people argue the point
/see what I did there?
IP hash: 3eb6f66f
I’m sure this guy is a typical HYPOCRITE - meaning - he probably consumes processed foods, SUGAR, caffeine, alcohol & pops pills (over the counter drugs & perscription drugs) - yet Marijuana is HEALTHIER than all of that!
what a joke. Americans need to wake up!
go here for more knowledge, we’ve been lied to on EVERYTHING. truthknowledge. com
IP hash: 90dfee95
Dude needs to get laid. Look at that picture.
IP hash: 44b12d79
Why do you all give Smathers the satisfaction of knowing people actually read his bullshit?
IP hash: 97081a9f
Hey great article, he’s on the anti-prohibitionists side guys. You just need to read and comprehend a bit better. Cut him some slack, at least he sees through the b.s. that most of them don’t.
I agree with what he�s saying. Look at any pro-marijuana protest, you see guys with Led Zeppelin and Marijuana T-shirts. If you want the professionals to listen, you need to look, act and behave like them. I�m all for personal freedoms, but beating your chest gets no one anywhere. In sales the first impression is everything, think about it.
IP hash: 97081a9f
Hey great article, he’s on the anti-prohibitionists side guys. You just need to read and comprehend a bit better. Cut him some slack, at least he sees through the b.s. that most of them don’t.
I agree with what he�s saying. Look at any pro-marijuana protest, you see guys with Led Zeppelin and Marijuana T-shirts. If you want the professionals to listen, you need to look, act and behave like them. I�m all for personal freedoms, but beating your chest gets no one anywhere. In sales the first impression is everything, think about it.
IP hash: ba5a71fb
Would you rather meet someone on the highway who has 10 shots of whiskey in their system or 10 joints of cannabis in their system?
IP hash: 1f0256e7
To keep cannabis illegal while tobacco and alcohol are dispensed freely is MURDEROUSLY STUPID.
We in California who are blessed with a qualifying disease still pay black market prices [$15/g], along with the additional insults of sales tax and exorbitant state ID card fees.
It need to be fully legalized. Bring back the $25 lid! There is all the economic stimulus THIS glaucoma patient requires.
-San Jose California
IP hash: f0052d9c
Obviously there’s a lot going around here so I’m probably not the first to say it. Grow up, Smathers. I don’t like pot or smoke it either but all of my friends do all day. I’m done being the elitist who has to make a big deal after everyone smokes all the time. I don’t do it with coke either. Everyone can do with their bodies what they please and so can you. You choose not to smoke and they choose to smoke but that doesn’t mean you have to critique them all day. I haven’t heard someone complain about that since 8th grade.
Thanks for contributing. That’s just my opinion.
IP hash: d6fea47a
This article is rubbish. I don’t smoke cannabis, yet I support it’s legalization for a number of reasons. Not because I’m some pothead, but because I think prohibition of marijuana has done far more harm than the drug itself. Mr. Smathers; you shouldn’t address the subject of marijuana again, it makes you seem rather silly.
IP hash: c215766e
Politically, your article has a very good angle. The movement needs moderate representatives. Ron Paul and Dennis Kucinich are okay, but they’re not going to seal the deal.
I’ve tried to debate this issue on the internet. I’ve found that the people who back me up in a thread tend to bring non-scientific beliefs into the discussion. It doesn’t make for good politics when the people agreeing with you also believe in magnet therapy, crystal therapy, and other trippy hippyisms.
Herbal medicine itself is controversial. I feel some of the proponents of medicinal cannabis do not have enough skepticism with regards to herbal medicine as a whole. Luckily for cannabis, its potential side effects are less troubling than other commonly used controversial herbs such as ginseng. I think that with an opportunity to be studied, cannabis will moved beyond being considered alternative medicine and be evidence-based medicine.
IP hash: b54a0bb2
It was quite obvious what this guy was trying to say. He was just pointing out his own foible as it relates to pot and how many people share this view. It was clever the way he wrote it and he brings up a good point. I know plenty of people who dont like pot or the mentality of stereotypical stoners, yet believe it should be legal. Even my right wing republican dad thinks it should be legal and makes fun of stoners ( as he drinks his booze). The article was interesting because you had to think a tiny bit to figure where he was going. He was just giving insight into alotta peoples head, many people think like him. Not me, but I get it.
IP hash: c755cbbe
This guy is a dumbass, there’s plently of successful pot heads.
IP hash: c755cbbe
This guy is a dumbass, there’s plently of successful pot heads.
IP hash: fa6e46e1
I m pretty sure that this guy knows nothing about marijuana. Fact is he doesn’t smoke and he’s talking bullshit. seems more like 8’th grade essay for me. Common dude be realistic. Look at the fact, and speak truth. Doesn’t mean you have to smoke pot but smoke truth. Today everyone knows everything so don’t speak lie or opinion, find truth and if u can speak truth against pot.We fight with truth, not with your view !
IP hash: 584a04e3
Ahh, bud you tried your best. We know a lot of emotion has lead to the phenomenon we know today as the war on marijuana. The government puts people behind bars just like any other would be rational paycheck seeking individual and the average citizen stands up to see freedom entirely. Yeah, we fight, yes we hurt. Soon enough it will be legal, just because freedom-wise it fits. Just pray for the people who are hurt everyday because of it. I work hard for my money and would like to enjoy marijuana once again some day, maybe in another 20 years. As for now, cigarettes and fast cars are just ok.
IP hash: c2e22350
Smathers you clearly have no idea what you’re talking about. Of course there are lazy, stupid potheads, but no more than the number of lazy, stupid people that aren’t. Just because you’ve never smoked marijuana or you just don’t like it, it doesn’t give you the right to be a stereotypical prick. I know many potheads very well, and none of them fit your incredibly rude and inaccurate description. In fact, the majority of them are brilliant, hard working people that go to damn good colleges or have damn good jobs. You probably only dislike talking to people that are high because you fail to recognize it 90% of the time. Countless successful individuals smoke a lot of weed, and they’re damn more intelligent than you. Give it 20 years, the ridiculous laws in this country will be reversed, and you’ll see that it’s not just a bunch of lazy stereotypes in support of it. And finally, grow up you jackass.
IP hash: 9358da0c
If this Jason character has never tried marijuana, he shouldn’t even be talking in such a negative attitude toward the plant. He has got to be one of the most annoying people I have ever heard talking smack. Marijuana doesn’t change your fucking perspective that much. Depending on your mood, it can make you laugh, relaxed, calm, tired, but its not going to make you a complete dumbass how this fool seems to tell. Hopefully the peanut butter kid can maybe come to a more sensible way of talking shit upon people instead of writing a fucking article on the internet. I want this guy to go protest on the street so some big ass kimbo slice replica can just punch this shit out of his dumbass head.
IP hash: 30cf998b
I think a lot of people are really missing the point of this article.
Sure Mr. Smathers has a wry sense of how to relay information, but his point is clear.
It’s not him we are fighting against, he is one of the majority of people who are not fighting to legalize, but that would vote to legalize, because he recognizes his prejudice, and realizes that just because he views the world one way, the rest do not.
Don’t get me wrong, I am not standing up for this sort of article. But for all those who have read this article and will in the future, Mr. Smathers makes a good point.
It is ignorance and unorganized chaos that stops us from legalization, not the people who don’t think hemp or cannabis should be legal.
A senator as well as a few house reps on a federal level would change a lot for the reform and legalization movement.
IP hash: 8d3d9ddd
I can understand and agree on this, that potheads need to curb the subculture for political reasons if they want m.j. to be legalized. The uptight pricks that condemn this natural plant are what’s holding it back, but by going against them with a delinquent, obnoxious, party free-for-all attitude isn’t going to convince them it shouldn’t be illegal.
IP hash: ea1690f1
Your argument for pro-legalization movement to change your perception of them is like a raciest asking a black person to be less black so that they wouldn’t be prejudice against them. See it doesn’t really work like that. these politicians and yourself need to stop being prejudice and then your perception should change for the better, being more respectful and understanding of your fellow human beings.
IP hash: a99f6d42
The only reason these people all have trouble understanding your article is because they are all high and typing their comments with cheetoh fingers.. great article!
IP hash: 1b8d8645
BRAVO. All one has to do is look at Russia and the mass consumption of Vodka to see what happens to a society when a intoxicating drug is legal, socially acceptable, and widely used. The effects of excess drinking has had a crippling effect all aspects of life in the country, lower GDP,social problems such child neglect and abuse. The Potheads are to a large degree correct about the positive aspects of legalization but the negatives outweigh them by a considerable margin.
IP hash: 1f0256e7
You only have to look at Mexico to see the fruits of cannabis prohibition. As long as tobacco and alcohol are legal, the prohibition of this non-toxic herb is a crime against humanity.
Repudiate the damned law. Legalize it.
IP hash: 7d3af50c
for those who didn’t understand this article completely upon first read and are serving huge helpings of dissent, most likely, fall into the dumb pothead paradigm — potheads + zero reading comprehension…just as I expected. Let me go call the WAAAAAmbulance
IP hash: 50c063f0
I am all for legalization. The arguments have been presented numerous times, and the benefits, besides medical, via hemp rope, clothes, and paper, are to blatant to dismiss.
That being said, I know more professionals who smoke than hippie pot-heads. They are not seen, they do it discreetly. If these professionals could stand up and voice their true opinions without fear of public or professional discourse, then you would see that a vast majority hard-working Americans smoke weed or is in support of legalization.
That is why so many states have adopted laws for this drug by putting the issue squarely with the American people on their voting ballots. That is the only way to truly know what the American people want, put the issue on the next Senate/Congessional Election. 2010 here we come!
IP hash: 8c26d8c0
they say “pot makes you stupid,” but to them i say, “NO! pot makes YOU stupid.”
IP hash: 24f0d5ac
What a freaking dork.
If you only knew how many scientists, engineers, and other professionals have used pot without harm, you would see how lame your arguments are.
Face it. The author is an uninformed bigot.
I couldn’t get past the first paragraph or two. He just wants to incite rather than inform or convince.
IP hash: 1d63d567
You realize that the entire article leads up to his point in the last paragraph?
By not reading it and understanding his argument, you are the one coming off as uninformed…
IP hash: f9c3a3d1
Is it that difficult to realize that the author wrote this entire artilc tongue-in-cheek?
IP hash: 50662bcd
Ding ding ding! We have a winner.
IP hash: 2b027669
“Prohibition will work great injury to the cause of temperance. It is a species of intemperance within itself, for it goes beyond the bounds of reason in that it attempts to control a man’s appetite by legislation, and makes a crime out of things that are not crimes. A Prohibition law strikes a blow at the very principles upon which our government was founded.” -Abraham Lincoln U.S. President.
Drug Prohibition has failed for the same reason Alcohol Prohibition failed. Prohibition does not work. Don�t Be Fooled Prohibition is UN-AMERICAN!
You are American’s experiment gone wrong Jason. Your lack of history into our forefathers desires puts you at odds with those of us who have fought and died in the wars.
Kids like you have not earned the right to have an opinion that effects America until you get your hands dirty for America and until then you are just another snot nose brat talking into the wind!
IP hash: c4e52877
TO JASON SMATHERS:
What do you call people who sleep on park benches?
You don’t call them potheads.
Just a thought for your immense intelligence to ponder while you sip your cold beer………..
IP hash: df2dd8dd
As a seventeen year old pothead and the top 10% of my class, your facts are all wrong. Lazy? Not in the least bit. Drudging through life? Cheetos? You’re a biased ass republican loser and if you’re not for legalization, than shut the fuck up. Ya know, if you’re not going to say something nice, THEN DON”T SAY ANYTHING AT ALL DUMBASS!
IP hash: b85b88b6
Go back to high school.
IP hash: a8a27ee5
Madison is full of aging yuppy hypocrites. Reminds me of a story, a personal one. 20 years ago, an inlaw was graduating UW Law and as A good inlaw, I visited from Milwaukee on multiple ocassions. I was astounded at the flagrant use of pot and hash through out. Sever friends an acquaintenances were shall we say legally elected people who came by for some of his imported has of high pot. My favorite memory of Madison is another friend of this in-law, who went on to become quite a successful attorney, even judge and still smokes his dope though privately. A surgical resident would stop by often enough, get stoned and head into his 36 hour shift at UW Hospital. As an outsider, I was surprised, but not completely. Madison has’nt changed. Now the yuppies want to protect their taxpaid paychecks and pensions while lambasting. Its as ignorant as ignorance get gets.
IP hash: b162c125
I would like to invite all of you to get an education on WHY cannabis should be legal. I put together something called “Granny Storm Crow’s list”. It is a compilation of hundreds of medical studies and articles about cannabis. (All done while stoned, incidentally- so much for me being another “lazy pothead”.)Please run a search on my list and read at least the titles of the studies. I think you will be amazed by the number of ailments cannabis can treat, lessen, or prevent. Alzheimer’s, diabetes, MS, MRSA, various cancers, epilepsy, fibromyalgia, glaucoma, heart disease, strokes, nausea, neuropathic pain and much more are all in my list. Please educate yourselves about this amazing medicinal herb! Free copies of my list can be obtained by emailing me at i.wantgrannyslist(at)greenpassion.org. Thank you.
IP hash: 4cd7cd3e
It’s so fucking simple. It alcohol remains legal, pot should be legalized. If pot remains illegal, alcohol should be illegal.
Can anyone prove that pot is more dangerous than alcohol?
How many people does the Madison PD send to detox?? How many people are injured/maimed/killed by drunk drivers? How many alcohols are there that tear apart families and lives?
Sure, pot has negative consequences sometimes if used irresponsibly, but I challenge anyone to prove to me that pot is more destructive than a bottle of vodka.
IP hash: 0227d0e6
This is a poorly written article by an arrogant idiot. I have smoked pot and consumed alcohol, alcohol is far worse. Pot doesn’t change any major part of a person, Alcohol does…Find your own lazy stoner, i work 40 hours a week, work out, and participate in society. Fuck you who just refers to me as a lazy stoner.
IP hash: 4e3d7eba
BILLIONS and BILLIONS of joints?
“There is a myth about such highs: the user has an illusion of great insight, but it does not survive scrutiny in the morning. I am convinced that this is an error, and that the devastating insights achieved when high are real insights; the main problem is putting these insights in a form acceptable to the quite different self that we are when we’re down the next day. Some of the hardest work I’ve ever done has been to put such insights down on tape or in writing. The problem is that ten even more interesting ideas or images have to be lost in the effort of recording one. It is easy to understand why someone might think it’s a waste of effort going to all that trouble to set the thought down, a kind of intrusion of the Protestant Ethic. But since I live almost all my life down I’ve made the effort - successfully, I think. Incidentally, I find that reasonably good insights can be remembered the next day, but only if some effort has been made to set them down another way.” - Carl Sagan
http://reason.com/blog/2009/10/07/dragons-of-eden-author-draggin
And of course there’s always Michael Phelps, a perfect example of the broken physical specimens produced by the demon pot.
IP hash: 494b2d07
Starring J smathers as the Beaver.
IP hash: d3a931a3
my fuck, that’s funny
IP hash: 78e85de6
You are the dumbest asshole ever. Let me start out with that. I guarantee you have done no research on the topic and have absolutely no idea what you are talking about. Take it from somebody who has researched the topic over and over again; there is no good reason that marijuana is illegal. Take a look at any country who allows the use of marijuana and you will see that the crime rates and “hard” drug use is extremely lower than the United States. The U.S. has one of the worst and most corrupt governments on the planet, even though they will lead you to believe otherwise. You can call me a stoner all you want for being against the government, but you are insane for believing anything the government tells you. Our government will feed you whatever they want you to believe; and of course most people like yourself will believe it. The extreme amount of propaganda that the government has allowed to be released about marijuana has destroyed America’s number one cash crop. Yes, I am talking about marijuana. How would taxing the number one cash crop not help the government? Further more, how will prohibition of marijuana ever work if a majority of the citizens refuse to stop smoking marijuana no matter what the federal government says? I will guarantee you prohibition of marijuana will NEVER work! It is the same way the prohibition of alcohol never worked. Since you are writing this article in one of the the highest alcohol usage states, you should probably shut the fuck up because we have already proven that prohibition will not work.
Smoke a joint and enjoy the fuck out of what the Earth has put here for you to enjoy, dipshit.
IP hash: 525c7d6d
Most politicians don�t take pot smokers or their position for the legalization of marijuana,
A LOTS POLITCIANS SMOKE POTS. ur dont make sense.
IP hash: 9839657a
many of the commenters would benefit from re-reading the article… the postitions implied, and those of the author are closer than understood. Arguing with someone who expresses a good amount of support for your end goal will alienate your position even further.
IP hash: 8cde872c
I couldn’t read the full article, it was like listning to someone say that segragation is a great idea because they don’t like someones skin color.
IP hash: e220d3a7
And, with respect to some liberalization of the drug-possession laws at the state level, “I regard these developments as a distinctive statement by people that the present system is not working very well and they want to change it.” - George Shultz
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703298004574459421700711960.html
IP hash: 44f33e7a
You sir, Mr. Smathers have made your point. But I would have to disagree with your opinion. However, I will not come at you with insults or rudeness. Let me just say that being closed minded is not something to be proud of and its surely not something to state out loud. When you tell people you know your closed minded, your basically telling them you are ignorant. Therefore, you cannot be upset when people bash your article. You handed them the ammunition and the gun. Your article was well written, concise, and it shared your own personal ideals. But it was also shallow, uninteresting, and unconvincing. Next try arguing for the opposition. Try pro-legalization because not only will it inform you on what you do not know, but it will also make for a better paper. And if you couldn’t tell, yes I do smoke pot myself and I enjoy it. Your article was a refreshing review on the opposition but like I said, I stand unconvinced by your argument. Oh and if you expect to be respected as a writer, try to leave out the harsh words that would make you come off as an ass. I’m sure your a nice guy but being prejudice will only make you hateful and will make others hate you. Educate yourself on all aspects of marijuana (pro & con) before you write. :)
IP hash: 29a1057e
wow…. be a little open minded. you’re an ass.
IP hash: dd2af750
What people like you dont realize is that its already legal. Its everywhere and is not going anywhere. You fail to understand the advantages of Hemp, do you even know the advantages? My guess is no. Ask yourself why is even hemp illegal? It contains no THC and has tremendous benefits. Do you even know who created the law and when? This article is up there on the ignorance chart, and I dont blame you, I blame the propaganda you have been fed your entire life.
I ask you to do some research because as of now there is plenty out there in support of legalizing. I ask you to look up the benefits of Hemp. Do you like the environment? Do you realize the chemicals that are used to make that shirt you’re wearing in your nice picture up top? My guess is you plain have no idea.
Your opinion was just that, you provided no real argument or factual information. I get tired of seeing people who die each year from Alcohol but that is perfectly acceptable in this country. I see people die and get addicted to prescription drugs each year and that is perfectly acceptable… Why have you not done any articles on those drugs? After all they have killed far more people than pot has. Matter of fact pot single handily has never killed even 1 person. TRY and debunk that statement.
Like I said at the start what people like you fail to realize is that its already legal. The only choice you have to make now is whether we give our money to drug dealers or to you. Either way I will never stop smoking, I wont follow that unjust law, and if you put me in prison Ill STILL go out of my way to smoke inside of prison like many do. Not to mention where I live, im not going to prison. I know the laws and I would get a $600 fine at most. Smoker for 15+ years. Never failed a drug test, never arrested, never followed that absurd law. So keep with your ignorance thus far its gotten you no where. THINK.
1) Why was pot made illegal? 2) Why was hemp made illegal? 3) Does hemp have benefits? 4) Is hemp fiber extremely strong? 5) Is hemp fiber environmentally friendly? 6) Is hemp easier and safer to grow them cotton? 7) Where did the trillions that the DEA has been given over the past 50 years go? 8) What does the DEA have to show for the past 50 year war on drugs? 9) What does the DEA have to show for the trillions that were spent? 10) Do people actually follow the law? 11) Does pot kill as many people single handily as alcohol or prescription drugs? 12) Do you think its right that DEA raids houses killing family pets and “drug” users? 13) Do you think its okay for the DEA to duel wield pistols when raiding? 14) Why is hemp clothing legal in the US but growing Hemp is not? 15) Was George Washington involved with growing hemp? 16) Was our Constitution originally drafted on hemp paper? 17) Should forests & rain forests be saved? As well could hemp paper save them? 18) Do medical patients feel relief from using? 19) Should someone be denied the right to use if it does make them feel better than taking a presumption drug? 20) What benefit does keeping pot illegal serve? 21) Would pot becoming illegal create new jobs? 22) Would pot becoming illegal bring extra revenue to a very poor economy? 23) Arent you tired of drug dealers? 24) Do pot heads like drug dealers? 25) Is it wrong to be a hippie? By definition this is someone who believe in peace, love, and protecting the environment. 26) Should something be illegal because it makes people lazy? If yes see 27. 27) Should TV be illegal? 28) If pot is the only crime that someone commits is it right to place them on the side of murderers and rapists? 29) Do ALL police agree with the law? 30) Have you ever smoked or eaten the mighty cannabis?
THINK.
IP hash: 35fefcf3
I want to see if Jason Smathers can reach 100 comments on the backs of the majority of these comments which resort to deeply personal attacks instead of attacking the argument. Learn to differentiate the argument and the person and you will be able to persuade people much better.
As I’ve said before Jason, I thought it was a good article and although I may disagree with you on some points, I by no means feel that you are uninformed nor an ass.
IP hash: 1274595f
This kid is a pompous ass. He might gain some self awareness, not to mention a sense of humor from smoking a little dope.
IP hash: 1d369e6e
Awfully judgmental and rather offensive second paragraph. You should think twice before adding insulting rubbish to an article with your name and picture posted next to it.
I do not blame the people making personal attacks, as you have brought them upon yourself with your generalizations and insight, or lack thereof, on the issue at hand.
I’m at a loss of words to express my discontent towards your choice of words and am truly insulted you’re such an ignorant and close-minded being to any marijuana users you’ve come across. I wonder who would be classified as the jackass in a social situation involving you and a ‘stoned’ individual. JUDGING by the supposed ‘glare’ you would be giving them the moment you found out they were under the influence of it, I’m assuming you. The fact that you completely tone that person out at that exact moment as well, is a prime example of ignorance at it’s worst.
May I ask what your other prejudices are? Drunks, crack addicts, meth heads, caffeine junkies, minorities, prostitutes? Just taking a few shots in the dark.
Jason Smathers, judging books by their covers since…hmmmmm, I’m guessing here…1984? I ask because I will loathe people from your particular age group from now on because of this unsatisfying occurrence with one of them!
Sincerely, Gretnman
IP hash: 0b953ee3
Dopes! Let me re-iterate my point as to why this article is totally useless. you almost all clearly missed it. The big point of the article is:
“That�s great, but will we ever have someone in the U.S. Congress seriously campaign for legalization? … Get a former legislator who�s as clean as a whistle � and moderate, too � to start advocating for it in public, and build a marketing campaign and new public interest group around it. Secure some sympathetic wealthy elite to fund your campaign.”
And that’s an idiotic point. I’m sorry if that statement makes you cry, but it’s true. It just shows that the author has no idea what he’s talking about. Here’s why:
“Get a former legislator who�s as clean as a whistle” -> Bob Barr
“and build a marketing campaign and new public interest group” -> MPP, Leap, SSDP, etc, etc, etc.
“Secure some sympathetic wealthy elite to fund your campaign.” -> Soros and friends
“That�s great, but will we ever have someone in the U.S. Congress seriously campaign for legalization?” ->Ron Paul, Barney Frank, etc, etc, etc.
And then it is pointed out in comments that what he suggests has been done, and does it change the authors view? No! he says:
“No. One, because that was introduced last year too and never got out of committee, and I doubt this one will either, Two, because I think you need a Senator to step up to start making waves. Congressmen introduce bizarre resolutions and ideas all the time, but a Senatorial move creates sparks on the national stage.” -> Bernie Sanders, Jim Webb
He just negated his only point in the article and tried to come up with a new point that’s still totally uninformed. It’s clear that the author will not be supportive of legalization until everybody else is. Everything he suggested doesn’t even work on himself. He makes it crystal clear that his advice is useless. So what relevance, usefulness or helpfulness does this article have? none!
Want pot legalized? Then don’t waste your time listening to Jason Smathers.
IP hash: 1d369e6e
I find it rather amusing Jason’s facebook default picture is of him chugging a beer.
Hypocrite.
IP hash: 04edde4a
legalize it and tax the hell out of it.
IP hash: d90b922c
ok well ur dum obviously weed makes u feel so good i love getting high
IP hash: bc687530
Wow! So misinformed. You clearly have no idea what the war on drugs has done to this country. You have no concept of the idea of liberty and self ownership.
How can you be such a hypocrite and ignore all of studies comparing the use of marijuana to the use of alcohol? How many people beat their wife while on marijuana? How many people drive drunk and kill someone? How many people get alcohol poisoning? Pot is not addictive, alcohol is. And the list goes on and on with how much worse alcohol is for you.
“Because those people are potheads, that’s why. They go around, shuffling through life, slowly mumbling about how their freedoms are taken away when they barely utilize that freedom to do anything other than head to the store for some Cheetos.”
Even if that was the case (which it clearly is not) than who cares? Does a person not have the right to sit around at home and be lazy? I can make the arguement that non-pot smoking Americans are just as lazy, if not lazier than the average pot smoker. How many people waste countless hours reading your stupid articles? Watching American Idol? Playing video games? etc, etc.
“That’s great, but will we ever have someone in the U.S. Congress seriously campaign for legalization?”
Arnold decriminalized marijuana possession in California, so yes, legislators are taking this seriously. Some of the most accomplished people I know smoke pot