Wow! First I would like to say that you are misinterpreting my intentions. You immediately went on a super-defensive stance and started attacking my character. Why is that?

I didn't set up any straw men; I think you are misunderstanding the term. I also don't think its fair to say I exaggerated the evidence, as you suggest. I merely said that many studies show it isn't addictive. A fact you don't dispute based on your last post. Also, I never insinuated using marijuana recreational is a good thing, I am merely questioning the logic of prohibition.

As an American I am entitle to think for myself, and as a Christian I feel it is my duty. I'm sorry that you have had terrible experiences with losing loved ones to drugs and alcohol. I have too. I've lost loved ones to prescription drugs they didn't need and were way more addictive, too. I've lost friends to addiction to opium based prescription drugs given to them by licensed drug dealers called Doctors. I have lost loved ones to early death caused by addiction to the drug of processed foods, sugar, and tobacco. It sucks. I really don't think we should be passing laws making all of those things illegal, either.

You never really addressed the main point I made, which is that prohibition hasn't been effective in curbing the rising use of ANY drug. None I know of, but I'm willing to hear an example. The truth is, in this country people want drugs. I'm not saying it is good, but it is the truth. I fail to see how adding a large population of unemployable males, who have spent time in a survival of the fittest rape factory like the US incarceration industrial complex, into society is good for anyone.

I think it's an entirely legitimate and logical position. I also think it's entirely legitimate to cite the Lord for creating Marijuana. He did. He also created alcohol. (psalm 104:15) If you want to say man's current use of it is a result of the fall, then fine. We should outlaw sugar, caffeine, chocolate, all prescription drugs, aspirin, etc. God gave man dominion over the earth including all the herbs. (Gen 1:29) and all good gifts come from God, should be received with thanksgiving. (1 Tim 4:4)

I do not dispute that it can be misused or that it can cause harm. So can any drug, food, or activity. We Christians are supposed to exercise self control. I think you could learn a little, when it comes to firing off your replies.

I didn't arrogantly assume anything. I merely posed a question. Here's another: Do you think it's helpful to answer someone with a harsh reply?

I also challenge your use of the term "legislating morality." Who is that addressed to? I didn't use that, and I think it's a poor argument. If you legislate, you must do it by some standard of morality. The question is whether or not society is in more danger or less as a result of prohibition. It is my position that it is more harmful to pass prohibition laws because it creates a whole new set of social injustices. Third world countries are being turned into war torn hell-holes because of gangsters hoping to cash in on the drug trade. Prisons are overcrowded, disproportionately with minorities, largely due to ridiculously harsh sentences, where addiction could be treated more cost effectively by other means without taking a father or mother out of the home during a child's formative years. Gangs derive most of their profits from drug trade. I could go on and on, but really why should I?

Like I said, there are states now that have legalized marijuana and we can look there as an example. As for long term effects, you don't need scientific studies for that, marijuana has been used for millennia.

There are two main points, here. One is political, the other is religious. I only brought the religious argument up in response to your post. Either way, I don't think I should be berated for questioning you.