"Commission's Conclusions"

Marijuana’s Impact on Society
“There is no systematic empirical evidence to support the thesis that marijuana either inevitably or generally causes, leads to or precipitates criminal, violent or aggressive behavior. If anything, the effects observed suggest that marijuana may be more likely to neutralize criminal behavior and to militate against the commission of aggressive acts. If its use is to be discouraged, it must be discouraged on grounds other than its role in the commission of criminal or violent acts.”

Marijuana’s Impact on the User
“Marijuana has been used by man around the world for many centuries. Scientifically, more is known about marijuana’s effects than many other botanical substances used by man. Few consistent physiological effects are noted. No pathologic bodily changes have been conclusively demonstrated from acute use.

“The margins of safety between the effective dose and the toxic dose are quite large. No human fatalities have been caused by marijuana. Physical dependence has not been demonstrated.

“No objective evidence has been demonstrated that even very heavy, long-term hashish use causes organic brain damage. Objective studies of chronic, heavy smokers of potent preparations have not causally linked this drug with the amotivational syndrome. Almost all chronic, heavy hashish smokers are indistinguishable from their peers in social behavior, work performance, mental status and overall life style.”

January 2000
© 2000-2001 kgs