Nicotine is such a dangerous drug, yet it is legal for people over the age of 21. Since marijuana is illegal, it must be more dangerous – right?
Not necessarily. Although the acute effects of marijuana are similar to those of nicotine (mood alteration and physiological effects), the long-term effects of marijuana are inconclusive. There is some scientific concern over the effects of marijuana on the immune and hormonal systems, but there is insufficient research on such long-term effects. It does, however, have detrimental effects on driving skills. The main reason marijuana is illegal is that it was included in the Harrison Narcotic Act of the 1920s, and there has so far been insufficient government interest in making it legal.
