In recent years, there has been an enormous shift in public opinion regarding Marijuana use. In 1969, only 12% of Americans believed Marijuana should be legalized, and in 1999, the number had risen to around 30%. Today, nearly 60% favor legalization (Swift; Stemen 406), and an intense push for Marijuana law reform has helped change the landscape of discussion regarding the propriety of the drug’s consumption. As a result, a majority of states now permit Marijuana use as a medical alternative upon a doctor’s recommendation (Stemen 416). Moreover, seven states and the District of Columbia require no medicinal nexus and allow it for recreational purposes. Along with this larger social shift, there appears to be a notable increase in support for decriminalizing, or even legalizing, Marijuana among those professing Christian faith (Bailey 14-15).
A comprehensive discussion of Marijuana use is multifaceted and necessarily includes potential medical benefits and risks as well as mental and psychological consequences
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