Itchy Oxford article
itchy guide to cannabis
itchy guide to cannabis
The Itchy Guide To Cannabis
Roll-up, Roll-up...
D'erb has reached new heights in terms of public consciousness, the media, politics and law, and this is thanks to the recent proposals for the reclassification of the drug from a class C to a class B substance introduced by Home Secretary David Blunkett. Finally. The subject is highly controversial, and this is gonna meet mixed receptions, but at least the government has acknowledged the fact that there is a debate to be had, instead of maintaining a hard-line 'I SAID NO' stance.
Anyone got any rizla?...
The fact that cannabis has been reclassified does not mean that it's been either de-criminalised or legalised - the state of play is that you won't get arrested for smoking it, but it's illegal for anyone to give it to you. So how the hell do you get it? Short of removing your clothes from your wardrobe, re-customising it with foil and a light and becoming a mini-horticulturalist, it still means that you're gonna have to get the wackybacky from 'illegal' sources. But is this right? Should the 'evil weed' be available to you, Joseph Public, or should it stay an unwanted and underground element of society?
The Highs
What does cannabis do? It makes you high. In a nutshell (literally if you smoke enough of it), users of the drug say that it creates a pleasant feeling, perceptions are enhanced, chocolate becomes a must and normally unwatchable tv becomes hilarious. Activities can become more pleasurable, and relaxing more accessible. In addition to this there is the much more valid argument for the legalisation of cannabis, and that is for its medicinal benefits. Recent tests sanctioned by the government have demonstrated the benefits of the drug for the alleviation of pain for a variety of illnesses, including multiple sclerosis, cancer and arthritis, with not nearly as many side-effects as those coming from pharmaceutical drugs.
The Blows
Before you start rolling up a spliff though - hold your horses (or have a spliff first, and then hold 'em), as there are argument s suggesting why marijuana is bad thing. Maybe smoking loads of joints won't kill you there and then, but will it lead individuals onto harder drugs? This is the beer and whisky theory, and it is true that the people who participate with 'harder' drugs, such as ecstasy and cocaine, will have started with cannabis. Those who experiment with marijuana are most likely to be the same people who will experiment with other drugs as well. Having said this the idea of designated cannabis smoking venues, such as the newly opened (and then newly closed) 'Dutch Experience' cannabis cafe in Stockport, could actually change this, as customers would be able to get cannabis relatively easily, instead of becoming involved with 'street drug-dealers', who invariably have other drugs to deal as well. Hmmm. Another downside to smoking is the health aspects, and besides the dangerous aspect of the ingredients in tobacco (which is kinda available anyhow), is the fact that smoking can create feelings of nausea and paranoia. Occasionally smoking will make you feel nasty, and those who suffer paranoia might have that feeling increased. This can and does happen, although not to everyone, and in varying degrees. Another downpoint is the potential dangers of being under the influence of cannabis and doing other stuff - such as driving, working, crocodile-wrestling etc. This is another risk, as reactions and responses are affected, and in this sense the drug is similar to alcohol, although I would argue that the effects of alcohol pose a much greater danger.
Big Orange Hedgehogs
So what now? The recent movements of the government suggest that this country is taking a step closer to the legalisation of cannabis, and people will no doubt have their own opinions on whether this is a good thing or not. It has to be noted that these still 'criminal' activities are happening every day, within all classes of life, across all regions of the country, and much like the prohibition of alcohol in America in the 1920's, the fact that they are considered criminal doesn't mean that they don't happen. Some smokers feel that it shouldn't actually be a crime. I for one am hoping that Amsterdam-stylee coffee shops are in next year's Itchy Guides. Under the Home Office logo are the words: 'Building a safe, just and tolerant society'. 'Nuff said.
Tim Quince
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