01-06-2006, 05:21 PM
So should we criminalize alcohol usage? Or not, arguing that we should, but it's too late, but that doesn't make legalizing drugs right? Complicated decisions, and a useful dabate.
It seems like the interview made it clear that he supports treatment - and I would infer that he doesn't mean just for people who get into trouble with drugs, but an overall treatment for, as you say, the root causes.
And he is clearly saying that criminal behavior under the use of drugs is criminal behavior, and should be punished as such. I see nowhere where he says that legalizing drugs will mean more responsible drug use behavior.
As to whether there would be an increase in violent and other criminal behaviors if drugs were legalized is a matter of conjecture. One thing is certain: there would be much money and resources freed up to deal with that set of problems.
It seems like the interview made it clear that he supports treatment - and I would infer that he doesn't mean just for people who get into trouble with drugs, but an overall treatment for, as you say, the root causes.
And he is clearly saying that criminal behavior under the use of drugs is criminal behavior, and should be punished as such. I see nowhere where he says that legalizing drugs will mean more responsible drug use behavior.
As to whether there would be an increase in violent and other criminal behaviors if drugs were legalized is a matter of conjecture. One thing is certain: there would be much money and resources freed up to deal with that set of problems.