[livi]

Like many similar issues, there are to sides to the dilemma.

1. The principal opinion of the People. How we as a society look upon a phenomena. Do we believe a certain issue to be good or bad. The general legislation should view that opinion.

2. The action and remedies legislated.

The two do not necessarily have to concur as far as reaction / punishment.

We may look upon drugs as generally bad and so make it prohibited (1). However the action against it may vary according to a more pragmatic view (2). What does actually help to minimize the negative effects of drugs? Punishment as in imprisonment or other actions.