In an online conversation, myths about marijuana are debunked…

The other day, I had an interesting discussion about marijuana. I want to share it with you.

Note: This is a true online chat between me and a junior doctor. The name of the doctor has been withheld as I didn’t seek his/ her consent for publication.

Doctor:
Sir, what is your opinion on marijuana

Me:
Good to make ropes, right?

Doctor:
What do you mean? I find the issue and discussion regarding it fascinating.

Me:
Other than for its fibre, what worth it has?

Doctor:
Isn’t there some medicinal properties? Also, how is it gaining the push for legalisation if it really has no actual value? Is it mere public opinion?

Me:
It is orchestrated.

Doctor:
Is there really a lobby with enough funding to back it up? If anything, it seems like the alcohol and tobacco industries would work against it!

Me:
To the contrary….. What effects cannabis have psychologically?

Doctor:
Doesn’t it have generally a depressant and psychotic activity? I remember it could be deleterious especially if taken by a person who has a predisposition to psychotic illnesses. I can’t remember for sure, though.

Me:
You are right. Do you think, if asked from a pro-cannabis-legalisation guy, I would get a similar answer?

Doctor:
I agree. They seem to downplay that aspect.

Me:
And seem to promote what aspect?

Doctor:
Not sure. That it’s a “better” option among recreational drugs. That it’s not a gateway drug. And maybe it has medical applications in areas such as chronic pain etc. Again I’m in no way knowledgeable in this topic, that’s why I wondered if I could get an input from you.

Me:
They tend to say that it’s a calming drug. No violence. Stimulates creativity. Basically it has magical effects on your brain, that’s what they say. Chemicals can give us happiness… Now, who else would benefit from same belief?

Doctor:
I see you’re point. If cannabis wins, so does the whole drug industry.

Me:
Not only them, the antidepressant – big pharma – industry, too. There ARE individual who actually love cannabis and promote it. Poor fellows. Otherwise, you are right. If cannabis wins so does the whole drug industry.

Doctor:
Thank you. You really did show a whole new side to the argument.

Me:
Welcome.