Marijuana Decriminalization in a Critical Lens Isabella Garcia University of Massachusetts, Boston Sociology 367: Drugs and Society Professor Jacqueline Lageson July 15, 2023 Literature Review Historical Context of Marijuana Criminalization The criminalization of marijuana has had far-reaching implications, impacting individuals, communities, and societies. Understanding the historical factors that contributed to its prohibition is crucial for comprehending the current state of marijuana legislation. This literature review aims to critically examine the scholarly research on the historical context of marijuana criminalization, providing insights into the societal and political dynamics that shaped its legal status. The stigmatization …show more content…
Edibles offer an alternative method of consumption that appeals to both experienced users and newcomers to cannabis. This literature review seeks to explore the effects of recreational use of marijuana edibles and the potential implications for individuals and society. The review begins by examining consumption patterns of marijuana edibles, including dosage, frequency, and reasons for use. It investigates the different forms of edibles available and the variations in THC content and potency, which can significantly influence the effects experienced by consumers. While inhaling cannabis get you high faster, oral cannabis is more accessible for younger people. According to the article, “oral cannabis presents a considerable risk of accidental overdoses, especially in inexperienced or novice users” (Lewis et al., 2021, p. …show more content…
Advocates for marijuana decriminalization utilize this theory to argue that the criminalization of marijuana is socially constructed and that alternative approaches, such as decriminalization or legalization, can be constructed and implemented. Furthermore, social constructionism encourages critical examination of the interests, power dynamics, and social forces that shape drug policies. It highlights how the construction of marijuana as a problem and the subsequent criminalization have been influenced by political and economic factors, including the interests of pharmaceutical industries, law enforcement agencies, and moral entrepreneurs. By highlighting the social construction of marijuana as a harmful substance, proponents of decriminalization aim to shift public perception and policy towards a more nuanced understanding of marijuana use and regulation. They argue that by redefining marijuana as a relatively harmless substance and focusing on harm reduction rather than punishment, society can reduce the negative consequences associated with its criminalization and address the underlying social issues more