...journal entries (or the sum total, if that helps) and to synthesize some thread of thinking or learning that you find in there. You might build on a single entry or on something bridging multiple entries, but the point is to capture something that you are learning. We expect the paper to have some over-arching, coherent argument so that it is not simply a string of thoughts. A string of thoughts is fine for your journal entries, but here we do want some synthesis. You should not spend time summarizing your activities, unless that is essential for your argument. Grading Criteria The criteria we will use to evaluate the papers are listed below. Note that you do not have to address all of these criteria in one paper. We want you to address all of them over the course of the semester, but any single paper can focus on only one or two of these. Regardless of what you choose to write your reflection synthesis on, your paper must demonstrate clear, coherent argumentation. 1. Expression of Learning 2. Discussion and/or synthesis of course readings 3. Reflection on assumptions and cultural frames of reference 4. Connection to proposal process Word Count The reflection papers, except for the final one, should be at least 500 words, but not a lot longer than that. The final paper should be around 1,500...
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...RESEARCH PAPER General Topic: America’s War On Drugs Research Paper Question: How is the elimination of Drug supplies going to affect the economies and social concerns involved in the trade? Research Thesis Statement: The total elimination of illegal drugs in circulation will decrease employment in the US and increase unemployment in Afghanistan and Colombia. ABSTRACT: The "War on Drugs" is a campaign undertaken by the Federal government of the US with the assistance of participating countries such as Co lombia and Afghanistan , intend ed to reduce illegal drug trade to curb supply and diminish demand for certain psychoactive substances deemed harmful by the government. This initiative includes a set of laws and policies that are intended to discourage the p roduction, distribution, and consumption of targeted substances. COST: The U.S. government estimates the cost of the War on Drugs by calculating the funds used in attempting to control the supply of illegal drugs, in paying government employees involved in waging the war on crack, and to satisfy rehabilitation costs. This total was estimated by the U.S. government's cost report on drug control to be roughly $12 billion in 2005. Additionally, in a separate report, the U.S. government reports that the cost of incarcerating drug law offenders was $30.1 billion — $9.1 billion for police protection, $4.5 billion for legal adjudication, and $11.0 billion for state and federal corrections...
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...Legalization of Marijuana Brian S. Clear HU2740 28 August 2013 Marijuana dates back many years, and has been used throughout different cultures in various ways. Over the last few years however Marijuana has been used to fit our lifestyles and social environment in many ways. In our society today many people around the world smoke Marijuana for different reasons like medical purposes, with that being said I think Marijuana should be legalized permanently as it has many beneficial uses, including easing pain, it would help the United States get further out of debt. Legalizing Marijuana would also create jobs for many people lowering the unemployment rate in the United States. Marijuana whose scientific name is Cannabis Sativa has been mentioned in manuscripts dating back to 2700 B.C. in China. The Jamestown settlers recorded that they had first planted the crop in 1611, as they used the hemp from the plant’s fibers to make rope and canvas. Marijuana also known as ‘weed’ was used to make clothing, as the plant was very durable. During that time Marijuana was used more for survival far more than any other purpose. Marijuana came into play with the scarcity of alcohol during the prohibition era. The use of the drug rose from there, and became a large problem in the Unites States. The United States is one of those countries that can immensely benefit from the legalization of Marijuana use. In the United States, Marijuana is the most widely used controlled substance...
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...In recent years, television programs that focus on heavy drug use have been on the rise. One show in particular, Breaking Bad, has been a major hit with teens and young adults. A total of 10.3 million viewers tuned into watch the show’s series finale, 5.2 million of which were adults age 18-49 (Entertainment Weekly). Focusing on the drug business regarding crystal meth Breaking Bad depicts a thrillingly dangerous lifestyle. The show has developed a dedicated following, but one cannot help but wonder, what effect is this type of show having on its viewers? One might assume that television programming would have a strong influence on the habits of young viewers, so the main question is: what, if any, is the correlation between the increase in drug use on television and drug use among teens and young adults? There is a large amount of drug use on television, ranging from programming to advertising during commercial breaks. A study titled “Television Advertising and Drug Use,” published in the American Journal of Public Health, “investigated TV drug advertising as a factor in encouraging the abuse of legitimate and illegitimate drugs” (Peterson et al). The purpose of the study was to determine whether or not current National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) guidelines regarding drug advertising commercials are strict enough. While the discussion portion of the study revealed that there is room for improvement, it also stated: Our findings do not establish a causal link between...
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...Violation of Sec 5 and 11, Art II of RA 9165 In a report to PSSUPT PASCUAL G MUÑOZ JR, Laguna Provincial Director, by PSINSP JAIME SAVILLA PEDERIO,OOA 8:00 PM of July 16, 2013 in N. Kaharian Street, DFS, Brgy I Mendiola, Siniloan, Laguna. PNP personnel of Siniloan MPS led by PO3 Walter Camiloza Tiempo conducted buy bust operation on illegal drugs that resulted to the apprehension of the suspects 1. James Tibay y Javier, 34 years old, single, laborer, native and resident of N. Kaharian St, DFS, Brgy I, Mendiola, Siniloan, Laguna, and Alvin Oñeza y Co, 30 years old, married, security guard native and resident of Sangumay Street, DFS, Brgy I, Mendiola, Siniloan, Laguna who is caught while on the act of selling one (1) small heat sealed transparent plastic sachet with suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride inside to our poseur buyer PO1 Arsenio Cruz Rabbon II in exchange to our marked money three (3) pieces of one hundred peso bill with serial number O169432, TB964083 and RP 216580 and during preventive search suspect also custody and control another one (1) piece of small heat sealed transparent plastic sachet with suspected illegal drugs inside. Arrested also one shabu buyer identified as Alvin Oñeza y Co, caught also while on the act of possession, custody and control one (1) piece of small heat sealed transparent plastic sachet with suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride inside. Arrested suspects during their arrest were informed their constitutional rights and...
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...MDMA Influence and Clinical Implications Northern Illinois University Sassalee Tate and Arlilian Tisden Abstract: The purpose of this research is to identify causing factors of Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) addictions. MDMA has a target population of young adults, more specifically college students. The drug has been used to distort perception and create a euphoric sensation among users. MDMA was not created for recreational usage, but to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD). Through MDMA’s growing popularity referenced in social media as “Molly” the clinical intention has been depleted. Introduction Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) has been highly influential on society throughout the course of time. The drug has served multiple purposes such as a psychotherapeutic treatment and recreational usage. MDMA provides a euphoric experience for participants, heightening their emotional status at the time of ingestion. MDMA has become extremely potent and easily accessible to youth and young adults. This once military based substance has become a mainstream party drug. Many refer to MDMA as “Molly” or “Ecstasy”. The drug appears as a powdered substance withheld in a capsule or tablet. Most individuals administer the drug orally. Due to popularity in social media, MDMA’s use among young adults has increased. History MDMA was first introduced and produced by Merck in 1912, a manufacturer and pharmaceutical corporation (Bouso, Doblin, Farré, Alcázar &...
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...For many years, drugs have been prohibited by laws that the governments have imposed to prevent its illicit distribution and consumption. However, it is not a secret for many of us that Humans have been using psychedelic drugs since the beginning of time, and laws to regulate these substances are rather a new concept. So, that is why we think this way of preventing drug use is not the right one, the reality is that the strategy of drug prohibition, not drug use itself, is largely responsible for almost the same social pathologies produced by the drug consumption; as poverty, crime, lack of productive employment, marginalization, public health problems, among others. Briefly, drug liberation seems to be the new trend, but to what degree will the government relax drug laws before it is too much? Understanding the possible social benefits at legalizing drugs, we strongly believe that drugs use should be legalized by the government in order to win the Drug War. The first reason why drug use should be allowed is that drug legalization would mean a lower price. All illegal drugs are very expensive (their price is determined by a demand-led, unregulated marked) because their production, transportation and sale is very dangerous. So “some dependent users resort to stealing to raise funds (accounting 50% of UK property crime – estimated at £2 billion a year) most of the violence associated with illegal drug dealing is caused by its illegality” (urban 75, n.d) when people developed...
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...U.S. In the United States, there are two basic roots of evil that inspire more than a majority of all criminal activity, greed and drugs. Money and drugs go hand in hand in the U.S. and many places all over the world. The drug epidemic has been sweeping the world and the United States rapidly. More and more Americans are admitting to using drugs regularly. “An estimated 14.8 million American currently use illicit drugs” (Go). This means there is a huge demand and a wide range of demographics for drug dealers. “The 2004 National Drug Threat Assessment reports that in adults, age eighteen to twenty-five, 15.4 percent report having used cocaine in their lifetime, 53.8 percent report having used marijuana, and 15.1 percent report having used MDMA (commonly known as "Ecstasy")” (Swanson). The U.S. government is spending billions to fight a so called war on drugs. For the past 50 years the drug trade has increasingly grown in popularity. It is the biggest money making industry in the world. It is estimated that the highest annual income is around $400 billion with a gross profit margins of 300 percent, making the drug trade worth more than the annual budget of the U.S. DOD (Department of Defense). The demand for illicit drugs is greater worldwide than the demand for textiles and automobiles. It is said that of all international trade, 8% of that is illegal narcotics, while textiles make up 7.5% and automobiles make up just around 5%. With these facts and knowledge of the drug trade...
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...Drug use, Dangers and Preventions | Final Project | | Chris Furtado | 12/7/2011 | Chris Furtado Crim 120 12/7/11 Final Project Option #3: Drug use and prevention. For my final project I’m focusing on illegal drug use in the juvenile society and how it affects their livelihoods, the different types of drugs teens are becoming addicted to and what new types of drugs they are experimenting with in their society, and why they choose to start using drugs. I will be researching the street cost of these drugs, and the ways that they are being introduced into the American market and juveniles are profiting from it, as well as researching the pharmacology, psychology, sociology, treatment, and the business of drugs. Then I will be finalizing my research with ways to prevent juveniles from becoming addicted to these types of drugs and who to further education juveniles about the dangers and harms of drug use. Researchers have determined that “youngsters who have conduct problems are more likely than others to be exposed to illicit drugs” (Abadinsky: 21). Most juveniles who have emotional and behavioral problems are more than likely to start abusing alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs, according to a study done by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The study done by the (SAMHSA) also found that juveniles were inclined toward substance abuse admitted to delinquent behavior such as stealing, cutting classes or skipping school, and...
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...Methamphetamine is known for being extremely addictive. Known as “ice,” meth is a neurotoxin stimulant that produces a strong euphoria. Crystal methamphetamine is particularly known for being a condensed, dangerous version of the drug. Once someone becomes addicted, they must learn how to detox from ice. Detox can be challenging and dangerous, so it is important to only detox under medical supervision. Withdrawal Symptoms From Meth As someone learns how to detox from ice, they will most likely go through a range of withdrawal symptoms. This man-made stimulant has a powerful effect on the dopamine levels in the brain. When someone abuses this drug, it leads to a sense of euphoria and excitement. Over time, the brain becomes used to having meth present. A process called down regulation leads to reduced levels of dopamine in the brain. Basically, the neurons that are responsible for dopamine release stop allowing as much of the chemical to be released. The body is used to meth causing dopamine to be released, so it stops producing the same amount. As a result, the individual becomes dependent on meth for their dopamine. Once someone stops using meth, their dopamine levels immediately start to fall. This drop in dopamine levels fuels different withdrawal symptoms. Many individuals experience physical, mental and emotional symptoms. Among the many withdrawal symptoms, patients are likely to experience anhedonia. This term means that the user basically loses their ability to...
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...For this analysis, the topic of illegal drugs will be traced across three different television serials that vary in genre. In each programme illegal drugs are a pivotal element to the storyline, with close reference to youth involvement. This analysis will investigate how different televisual forms shape the way illegal drug use is understood and made visible across three different genres of television with reference to youth involvement. In addition, this analysis will discuss to what extent this representation of illegal drugs assists in legitimating themes of drug use and how these representations have shifted throughout history. This analysis will explore the representation of illegal drug in Workaholics, 90210 and Arrow. The mass media are commonly seen to reflect and shape social attitudes and behaviours; therefore it is likely that representations of teen characters in film and television will assist in defining what normative behaviours and actions are for teen viewers (Stern 331). This contributes to the argument that television can influence and young viewers are using these representations to authenticate their behaviours according to the dominant values represented on television. The repetitive portrayal of drug use on television can be seen to glamorise drug use and provide an overabundance, and inaccurate representation of drugs (Long et al. 96). As it is more commonly discussed and glamorised, it becomes more likely that young people will associate substance use...
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...Drug Trafficking Methamphetamine in the United States Jessica Block Eng 122 Paul Wiltz October 15th, 2012 Drug Trafficking Methamphetamine in the United States I decided to do my research paper on drug trafficking methamphetamine in the United States. I chose this topic for two reasons, one because I have had a history of drug trafficking methamphetamines myself and another reason is because I am currently working on my BA in applied behavioral science to further my career in substance abuse counseling. A little bit about methamphetamines being transported from Mexico to the United States is DEA (drug enforcement administration) is trying to put a stop to Americans transporting drugs from Mexico to the United States. And with the DEA doing this Americans think that it would be safer to make methamphetamines in their own homes instead of taking the chance transporting the drugs from one state to another. So I plan on doing my research paper along the lines of the DEA cracking down on Americans transporting methamphetamines and Americans making or “cooking” methamphetamines in their homes, otherwise known as “meth labs”. My hypothesis is that Mexico is the major supplier to the United States for methamphetamines and many Americans are going to Mexico to get methamphetamines and transporting the drugs back to their city to distribute the drug to make money. After doing some research on the topic I found that “DEA has concluded that Mexico has become...
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...Jose Vargas The topic I have chosen to write about is Drug Trafficking. This topic is interesting to me because right now this is a hot topic everywhere you go. Also, drugs are a very big problem in my community. The other reason I chose this topic is this a field I can see myself doing in my career I’m currently in. Drug traffic is also influencing a lot of teenagers because of the easy money the they can earn in a short period. The things that I know about my topic are that this business is very lucrative and destroys peoples mind set. Also, it causes officers to lose the jobs because of what they easy money they can earn. The illegal drug market in the United States is one of the most profitable in the world. As such, it attracts the most ruthless, sophisticated, and aggressive drug traffickers. One of the busiest routes into the United States via a variety of routes, including land routes through Mexico. They are much useful information I can find about my topic. I think that there are many experts I can talk to here in my area for example, Fresno county sheriffs and maybe Fresno police department. Also, one of my classmates is trying to get me an interview with a DEA agent who is involved in the narcotics unit. There are many sources I can find information about my topic. Before coming to this college I would take time and watch a couple of documentaries about the topic I chose. The are many questions I got about this topic. For example, has the creation of Homeland...
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...Breaking bad was written and produced by Vince Gilligan and broadcast from 2008 to 2013. Over these 5 seasons, many blog personal pose the question that Breaking Bad doesn’t examine the extent to which American institutions are failing and the drug problems. That it is deceptive by only exploring Walter White’s (actor) problems rather than the drug problem as a whole, specifically the urban poor. The middle class focus left questioning if it is the greatest series of all time, as popularly reported. The show squarely represents the target audience; forty-something, middle class, good living, conservative, suburban white America in the midst of an economic downturn, where the equilibrium (Todorov) of health and fortunes are pulled away from under them. Walter’s response conforms exactly to the American Dream; he personalises responsibility for other’s (bankers/corporations) actions, looks to himself to seek out opportunity, he becomes the entrepreneur, a manufacturer of a commodity much in demand. The middle class however can relate to the problems as it almost mirrors them. I got thinking and decided this argument really excites me and can write a lot about this argument prompted from breaking bad. The wider drug problem isn’t explored, but it is interesting as there is a lot to argue, in the fact it narrates the story from the middle class perspective. While similar shows, the wire, solely focuses on the underclass being exploited by higher authoritative people in society....
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...Legalization of Marijuana “Marijuana is a mind altering substance produced from a plant whose scientific name is Cannabis sativa” (National Drug Intelligence Center, 2003). Marijuana is primarily used because its active chemical, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) induces relaxation and heightens the senses. Marijuana is dried shredded leaves, to include stems, flowers, and seeds of the cannabis plant. This substance resembles tobacco however; it is green, brown or gray, and most recently purple in color. Marijuana comes in varying quality types, and is priced accordingly. Higher quality types of marijuana comes in colors such as purple, shades of red and yellow, and is composed of buds (National Drug Intelligence Center, 2003). Marijuana has many street names to include; Pot, Bud, Grass, Weed, Chronic, Indo, Ganja, Mary Jane and Herb, to name a few. Marijuana is used by many, to include teens and adolescence, and many debates have ensued as to legalities and dangers of use, however marijuana continues to be the most liked, and drug of choice by many. Marijuana is used by smoking it like a cigarette in a joint, pipe, bong or blunt. Recently, marijuana has become legal in many states, for the purposes of treatment of many medical disorders and diseases, which has resulted in legislation to legalize it, making it available to patients with medical conditions, for use by a prescription. Legalization of marijuana would reduce incarceration rates of drug related offenses...
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