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Marijuana

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Submitted By KevilDevil
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Kevin Belanger
English Comp 2
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Marijuana, Medically Benign:
A Look Into its Effects

Phillip Boffey, formerly the president of the National Association of Science writers and currently the director of the Council for the Advancement of Science Writing, is an editorial writer for the New York Times. He recently published an article about the health effects of marijuana titled “What Science Says About Marijuana.” The article is delivered in an informative and scientific tone by using research and proven facts to an audience most likely advocating the use of marijuana. It’s clear that anyone who picks up this article is most likely a user of the drug interested in its effects, or someone advocating for the legalization, or medical regulation of marijuana on a national scale. Boffey argues in his thesis that “It needs to be kept out of the hands of minors. But, on balance, its downsides are not reasons to impose criminal penalties on its possession, particularly not in a society that permits nicotine use and celebrates drinking.”(2) Boffey aims to educate his readers about how marijuana is far less harmful to the human body than some other completely legal substances like alcohol, tobacco, and prescription medications. While marijuana’s health effects may be minimal, these effects largely depend on the frequency of use, the age of the user, and if the user has any previous existing medical conditions.
Phillip Boffey launches his debate on the subject with a rather captivating introduction. He includes a quote from the administrator of the entire Drug Enforcement Agency, Michelle Leonhart, where she states, “All illegal drugs are bad for people,”(1) insinuating that there isn’t any difference in the harmful effects of crack, methamphetamine, heroin, painkillers, and marijuana. It’s clear the author aims to smash this idea with a look into what

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