It is always important to get outsider’s point of view when it comes to polarizing topics such as the War on Drugs. In this scenario, we turn to TED Conversations which is a forum that allows for everyday citizens to engage in thought provoking debates. The question raised was the regarding the continuation of this War on Drugs. The abstract says that far more people are harmed and/or dying from this war as opposed to the drugs themselves. Moreover, the argument that develops is that there needs to be a new approach to understanding this war; and that government must lean towards enforcing law rather than attempting to understand the demand for these hard drugs.
There were many interesting comments by people who felt very passionately about the topic. A comment made by Keith W. states that the War on Drugs has been a failure because with majority of drugs outlawed, this only allows for criminal organizations to thrive off such high demand. Other related opinions include one written by Tina Wang who expressed her disapproval for the War on Drugs because she sees no benefit in the legalization of drugs and has a problem with the sheer greed associated with it.
This idea of greed is further demonstrated in an article published by CTV News, which explains the federal government’s launching of a $1.3 billion dollar project for a free market of medical marijuana. In summary it seems like the government is hoping to profit from this industry and while yielding claims to benefits for both consumers and the economy. However. In my opinion, I see this as just another attempt to capitalize on an effective system that the government believes it can control. Though, at this rate, I believe this War on Drugs will grow to be more uncontrollable and the problem worsen for all parties involved.
Also attached is a video explaining a different prospective on how this War on Drugs affects everyone.
The Failed War on Drugs 