One of the most controversial topics in the news today is the legalization of marijuana. Supporters believe the drug is not harmful and may have many benefits. However, opponents argue that marijuana can lead to addiction and other, more dangerous drugs. Ultimately, marijuana should be legal based on economic, medicinal and philosophical factors. First, the legalization of marijuana would have a considerable economic impact. Since “marijuana is considered the second most profitable cash crop in the United States” (Erb__), the government could control and then tax the drug if it is legal. This would mean that a huge amount of money could be raised through drug taxation. A recent Harvard study estimated that "marijuana legalization would raise tax revenues of $2.4 billion per year if marijuana were taxed like all other goods and $6.2 billion per year if marijuana was taxed at rates comparable to those of alcohol or tobacco” (Miron ____). Money raised from this tax could be used to improve schools, roads and public parks. Ultimately, legalizing marijuana would be a big benefit to the economy. Second, legalizing marijuana would help people who use the drug for medical purposes. Often, people suffering from various illnesses smoke marijuana to relieve their pain. In fact, doctors use marijuana to treat many conditions, including muscle spasms, nausea, lack of appetite, seizures, and Crohn's disease (Harding ____). Additionally, marijuana can prevent blindness. A recent study found that “cannabinoids (active chemicals in marijuana) are potentially useful in delaying retinal degeneration” (Lax ___). Finally, legalizing marijuana would mean that people who really need this drug... middle of paper... alcohol. Additionally, marijuana is not a gateway drug since studies have shown that it does not lead to more harmful and dangerous drugs. In addition, marijuana is a safer substance than tobacco since no individual has died from its consumption while hundreds of thousands of people have died from tobacco. Research has proven that each of these ideas should not be used to argue against the legalization of marijuana. Ultimately, marijuana should be legalized. Authorizing marijuana would have a considerable economic impact and could raise funds. Additionally, legalizing marijuana would allow people with medical conditions to obtain the drug to treat their pain. Additionally, legalizing marijuana is a philosophical issue since the government should let individuals make their own decisions. In conclusion, the pros of legalizing marijuana outweigh the cons..