A Response to Dr. Cohen's Recommendations Concerning the Legalization of Marijuana

Abstract

Dr S. Cohen stated he elected not to “offer a critique closely tied” to my article. By taking this position, I believe he has made it more difficult for the reader to appreciate our points of agreement and disagreement. For example, he failed to address many specific points which I raised (e.g., the fact that nearly all of the negative psychobiosocial consequences of using marijuana are associated with heavy, chronic, daily use, as well as the specific criteria I proposed for distinguishing between marijuana use and marijuana abuse). Instead, he cited a number of strawman positions, referred to as “myths,” which he attacked in his article. Very few of these “myths” reflected positions I had taken in my article.

I also believe his choice of the word “myth” was unfortunate, since “myth” is a derogatory term which connotes ignorance and delusional thinking. I don't believe such labeling contributes to an objective consideration of a complex, sociopolitical, health problem.

My response to his article will be to identify what I believe to be points of agreement, partial agreement, and disagreement with his arguments and recommendations.