First off: THE ULTIMATE PHILOSOPHER: Legalize It Now: I've been very interested in the idea of some big-time activism that might very well get weed *totally* legalized for anyone over 18 years of age, within the *very* near future. I just haven't figured out how to get something mobilized. The case for full legalization is *overwhelming* at this point. A majority of Americans now are in support of it. There are no good arguments against it. It's time to translate this into swift and decisive action. I would like to strategize with you all here to get a large political coalition mobilized to demand legalization that the politicians would disregard at their own peril. With enough people mobilized in the voting process, close elections could be swayed depending on how candidates stand on legalizing weed. The reason I think this could be done swiftly and decisively is due to the meme-spreading power of the internet. We should figure out how to maximally exploit the power of this mass medium. I'd like to offer whatever insights I can (being The Ultimate Philosopher of course , and would very much like to see yours. Let's get this important exchange of ideas going. I'd love to see thousands if not millions of Carl Sagans out there coming up with all kinds of great ideas to move our nation and the world forward into a better society. Thanks!
[quote name='"420 Medical"']I tuned out as soon as I read 18+, get real.[/quote] What's wrong with 18+?
I think politics would even consider the subject if it was at least 21+ not 18+ because they will pull some medical fact that your brain is not fully developed so if your 21+ it's already supposedly fully developed
The public is far ahead of the politicians on this topic, especially over here in Australia. We still officially rate marijuana in the same drug category as heroin, and have no states or politicians openly talking about medical marijuana, let alone legalization. So, in order to connect with and interest politicians, you need to understand what politicians look for. - "Will it pull in votes?" They have no doubt seen the polls, but numbers are underwhelming. Organize a peaceful demonstration or protest in regards to your cause. With sites like Facebook, Twitter etc, organizing large amounts of local, like minded people isn't as hard as it used to be. Couple this with putting up posters and handing out "invites" in the street if you're feeling really keen. (Tip: Do not promote the use of cannabis in any information you put out. Legally, you're all set so long as you do not promote or encourage illegal activity. Check your local laws in regards to how you should conduct your protest in line with correct procedures). Best case scenario, you get media attention or public acknowledgement. Worst case, you make a few smoking buddies. - "Come out of the closet!". I don't mean admit to being gay/lesbian (unless you are, in which case you get my full support on that closet exit as well). Instead, openly discuss cannabis with your friends and co-workers. You don't need to admit to using it, but encourage it's discussion, the implications of other states or your own legalizing it or even as simple as getting peoples opinion. If even one person you talk to engages another person with the same question, you've created a ripple. If we all did this we could create a tidal wave. - "Be heard". Write or email anyone with the power to influence these laws. Research their stance, and be prepared to provide articulate and accurate information to back up your request. Take your time to present it well, as someone in their office will read it, and the clearer it comes across the more likely it is to make it on to those in charge. Also, come across as friendly and inquisitive, this is very important in getting them to reply to you, and can open up an opportunity to discuss it further with them. Example: "I like smoking marijuana, you should legalize it because everyone I know totally supports it" or "In light of recent polls, there seems to be a majority support for the legalization of cannabis. I was wondering what you are doing in regards to this information, and what plans you may have for the future on this issue?"
There is alot of activism already going on ... may be jsut as good to join up with them and contribute to them for ideas, depending on where you live. My understanding is the Norml in the U.S. is doing soem good work? But I am new to activism and am learning alot still.
Yes, I don't think alcohol or weed or any other substance should be legal for anyone under 21. 18 year olds are still kids. if you're between 18-21 you're gonna argue this with me cuz you think you're an adult. but when you become an adult, you'll understand what I mean.
this...... and got kids of all ages really..... age doesnt necessarily guarantee maturity.... but it does provide a greater chance of it.
Totally agree with this. You may not know it, but there might be a local group where you live working on this, if not, connect yourself with a nation wide organization and contribute online. NORML is good, and there are many others. Get involved if you're serious about legalization, because now is seriously a great time to jump in. The work i'm doing isn't really 'lone wolf', it's just my personal contribution as I also participate in other, more organized actions.
Not sure where the OP is from, but here in Australia, 18 is legally adult. You can drink, smoke, vote and any other adult activity you like at this age. Personally, i've seen studies that show marijuana can cause trouble when the brain is still developing, and to be honest i'd like to see it be 21 as well, even here. But one step at a time, get it into motion and then work out the details later.
18 is too young treat it like alcohol also, i'd like to mention that there are some states where you have to be 21 to purchase fireworks or porn.
[quote name='"420 Medical"'] 8-TEEN year olds are still kids.[/quote] Can vote, go die for the country, fuck, buy porn, and use Tobacco at 18 but not a relatively harmless plant.....I'm Canadian so I don't care but if your telling someone at 18 they can do these things then their considered an "adult" even at 18.
yea and in some African countries 13 year olds carry AKs and run with the militia...that dont mean 13 year olds are adults.
[quote name='"420 Medical"'] yea and in some African countries 13 year olds carry AKs and run with the militia...that dont mean 13 year olds are adults.[/quote] Because canada is a third world country amirite.
[quote name='"420 Medical"'] yea and in some African countries 13 year olds carry AKs and run with the militia...that dont mean 13 year olds are adults.[/quote] Ohhh really... well this apple is an orange.. That's something completely against the law, what I listed were all legal rights. Your comparison was terrible..
There is science and biology behind these issues ... if there was no science to backup the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes the whole movement towards legalization would be fucked. So research and don;t be a douche my advice.