NationStates Jolt Archive


Is Marijuana Addictive?

Soyut
17-04-2007, 01:33
Is Marijuana addictive?

I've never really craved marajuana, but lately all I can think about is this comming Friday which is 4/20. Am I addictited to reefer or am I just trying not to think about a stressful week ahead of me?
Kbrookistan
17-04-2007, 01:42
I voted no, just because I haven't seen any evidence to indicate that it is. And lots of evidence that under certain circumstance, it can be helpful.
Heretichia
17-04-2007, 01:45
I highly doubt its physically addictive. Psykological is another matter though, as escapism is indeed addictive.
Rhaomi
17-04-2007, 01:46
From Wiki (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_%28drug%29#Relationship_with_other_drugs):

A study published in The Lancet 24 March 2007 finds that cannabis is both less harmful and less addictive than either alcohol or tobacco. Twenty drugs were assigned a risk from 0 to 3. Cannabis was ranked 17th out of 20 for harmfulness, while alcohol and tobacco were ranked 11th and 14th respectively. Cannabis was ranked 11th for dependence while alcohol was 6th and tobacco 3rd, behind heroine and cocaine, which were also the two rated most harmful, and in the same order.

That being said, I'm sure it's possible to become psychologically addicted. But that's true for almost any behavior.
Luporum
17-04-2007, 01:46
Just seems coincidental that everyone I know who smokes it is a god damned retard. Addictive? To the same extent that alcohol is I would say.

I thought heroine had no adverse side affects aside from the addiction and the means of injection. Crystal Meth is much worse than heroine. Hell, my sister's in rehab for heroine and she looks much better than my cousin who's on cyrstal meth. (in jail)
Sumamba Buwhan
17-04-2007, 01:50
Yes, it is mentally addicting for those prone to such a thing and with used daily can be physically addicting, although minimally.

When I don't smoke for a day I have less of an appetite, I get a bit of a nauseus feeling and I can't get to sleep as easily, even though I smoke about once a day.

That being said, the physical stuff isn't very harsh and easily overcome. Even the mental addiction isn't harsh for me, I like it to reduce stress but I've never reached the point where I NEED it to reduce stress. I crave it when I don't have it but it's not all I can think about when I am out.

caffine and sugar are more addicting to me than THC.
Luporum
17-04-2007, 01:52
Maybe you need new friends.


and nowhere close to the addictiveness as alcohol, tobacco, sugar, caffine, Jenga.

That's why jenga's illegal in new jersey *nods*

Let's not forget the worst thing pot has ever brought us...HIPPIES!
Sumamba Buwhan
17-04-2007, 01:52
Just seems coincidental that everyone I know who smokes it is a god damned retard. Addictive? To the same extent that alcohol is I would say.

Maybe you need new friends.


and nowhere close to the addictiveness as alcohol, tobacco, sugar, caffine, Jenga.
Heretichia
17-04-2007, 01:54
I thought heroine had no adverse side affects aside from the addiction and the means of injection.

Wikipedia
Side effects:
Severe:

Respiratory arrest, seizure, coma, death
Spontaneous abortion
Cardiovascular & Respiratory:

Lowered heart rate
Slowed, shallow or ineffective respiration
Eyes, Ears, nose, and mouth:

Dry mouth
Pupil constriction
Gastrointestinal:

Nausea
Vomiting (protracted)
Constipation
Urinary System:

Urinary retention
Musculoskeletal:

Analgesia
Ataxia
Neurological:

Analgesia
Physical dependence
Psychological:

Anxiolysis
Confusion
Euphoria
Somnolence
Addiction
Skin:

Itching
Flushing/Rash


Think again:)
Luporum
17-04-2007, 01:58
Aside from:

Respiratory arrest, seizure, coma, death
Which would only be the result of an overdose.

The side affects are not that bad. Shit I get 90% of those symptoms from listening to my ex-girlfriend on the phone. :p
Vindea
17-04-2007, 02:00
No. It isn't. Its the kind of feeling you'll want to keep experiencing, and like, you can become mentally dependant (though with my limited experience i'd say only weak or unstable people would be), but as in being actually addictive? Nope, doesn't happen.

There are plenty of other things to become addicted to.
Mikesburg
17-04-2007, 02:01
Nah, I've never found it particularly addictive, mind you I've never smoked habitually. (Which might just go to show that it probably isn't all that addictive.)
Zarakon
17-04-2007, 02:02
From what I understand, it is emotionally addictive but you do not typically develop a chemical dependency on it. However, from what I've heard, the addiction becomes physical if you have sex while high.

Also, Heroin kills you dead. If you can't so much as spell the name of a drug, you shouldn't be spreading misinformation about it. Heroin addicts do not survive to old age. Jimi Hendrix, for example. I don't care about the bullshit you claim about overdosing only leads to those. Heroin addicts will pretty much as a whole eventually overdose. As House once said, "Statistically, drug addicts are stupid."
The Brevious
17-04-2007, 02:17
Perhaps the thread.that.never.ends.it.goes.on.and.on.my.friend....

I've smoked a few times and basically got really, REALLY f*ckin' stupid, and then sick for three days later since i'm apparently allergic.
Try it laced with something sometime, that's an adventure.
Soyut
17-04-2007, 02:17
For those of you who think it is not harmful. I would like to say that last month I smoked myself silly and for about 2 hours, I was convinced that there was an evil robot in my friends bedroom. It turned out to be his laptop making noise, but I still had a minor panic attack.

And another time when I was really high, I gave my roommate's Japanese girlfriend a lecture about ancient Samurai. I must of upset her because now she dosen't talk to me very much.
Cyrian space
17-04-2007, 02:18
According to everyone I've ever talked to who smokes or smoked it, it's not any more addictive than, say, chocolate. They all tell me that they can freely stop for months with no withdrawl symptoms, and only continue because they want to. Sure, sometimes they might say things like "Man, I really want some pot right now" but that's more an example of finding it pleasurable than any addiction.
Eurgrovia
17-04-2007, 02:18
Chemically, no. It can be addictive in the same sense of looking at porn or masterbating though.
The Brevious
17-04-2007, 02:22
Chemically, no. It can be addictive in the same sense of looking at porn or masterbating though.

Why "or" ?
Vittos the City Sacker
17-04-2007, 02:25
I voted yes, and I smoked daily for two years in college.

Any repeated experience of pleasure will cause the person to repeated follow out those actions that brought about that pleasure. The more you smoke weed, the more you reinforce the compulsion to smoke weed, even if you don't go through withdrawals when you quit.
Dobbsworld
17-04-2007, 02:31
No, it is not addictive.
Eurgrovia
17-04-2007, 02:40
Why "or" ?
Well, you can masterbate without porn.

Forgive me for shattering your world. :(
Zagat
17-04-2007, 02:43
Just seems coincidental that everyone I know who smokes it is a god damned retard. Addictive? To the same extent that alcohol is I would say.

What exactly do you base this opinion on? A 'gut feeling' or something?
Rhaomi
17-04-2007, 03:18
What exactly do you base this opinion on? A 'gut feeling' or something?
"That's where the truth lies, right down here in the gut."
Smunkeeville
17-04-2007, 03:19
Is Marijuana addictive?

I've never really craved marajuana, but lately all I can think about is this comming Friday which is 4/20. Am I addictited to reefer or am I just trying not to think about a stressful week ahead of me?

I haven't smoked any pot in years, and I keep remembering that Friday is 4/20, and every day about 4:20 I get all.....cravy.

however, I was a major pothead for a while.

maybe you should like not smoke pot.
Kanabia
17-04-2007, 03:52
Not any more so than anything else an individual finds enjoyable.
Marrakech II
17-04-2007, 03:58
Aside from:


Which would only be the result of an overdose.

The side affects are not that bad. Shit I get 90% of those symptoms from listening to my ex-girlfriend on the phone. :p

Change your phone number! Duh......
Admiral Canaris
17-04-2007, 04:37
Yes it is. One hit from a blunt and you will end in the gutter with a needle in your arm and a bottle for company.
Soyut
17-04-2007, 05:04
I haven't smoked any pot in years, and I keep remembering that Friday is 4/20, and every day about 4:20 I get all.....cravy.

however, I was a major pothead for a while.

maybe you should like not smoke pot.

Woaw. Are you serious? Cuz I only smoke like once a week, but still...
The Brevious
17-04-2007, 05:09
Well, you can masterbate without porn.

Forgive me for shattering your world. :(
You didn't ... some might say you were attempting to expand it some.

I MEANT, masturbating w/out weeds, silly!
*shakes head*
Putitalltogethernow
Poliwanacraca
17-04-2007, 05:21
The impression I have gotten from friends who have smoked pot and from the medical literature on the subject is that marijuana is mildly addictive - less so than, for example, nicotine or alcohol, but moreso than, for example, cheese.
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 05:26
In my experience, marijuana is not physically addictive at all, although it can be (like any pleasureable activity) psychologically addictive. In any case, I know no one who is "addicted" to marijuana, and personally...I smoke just about every day, and usually multiple times per day, but I sometimes go for a while (usually no more than a couple weeks) without smoking, and I don't notice any difference.



EDIT: And I would imagine that your concentration on Friday is due, as you suggested, to an unwillingness to think about a stressful week.

However, if you are truly concerned that you are becoming addicted, you should probably stop smoking.
Cannot think of a name
17-04-2007, 05:32
For those of you who think it is not harmful. I would like to say that last month I smoked myself silly and for about 2 hours, I was convinced that there was an evil robot in my friends bedroom. It turned out to be his laptop making noise, but I still had a minor panic attack.

And another time when I was really high, I gave my roommate's Japanese girlfriend a lecture about ancient Samurai. I must of upset her because now she dosen't talk to me very much.

Dude...where you gettin' your shit?


I'm a freelancer which means that sometimes I can afford all the pot I can smoke, and sometimes I can't afford to even go to a friends house to get high.

In those blank days, which can last for months, I don't suffer from physical withdrawals.

The worst thing that happens was summed up by a friend, "When you stop smoking pot you remember what it's like to be bored."
Nationalian
17-04-2007, 06:08
Everyone can become psychologically addictice to anything so no, marijuana isn't addictive.
Admiral Canaris
17-04-2007, 06:13
For those of you who think it is not harmful. I would like to say that last month I smoked myself silly and for about 2 hours, I was convinced that there was an evil robot in my friends bedroom. It turned out to be his laptop making noise, but I still had a minor panic attack.

And another time when I was really high, I gave my roommate's Japanese girlfriend a lecture about ancient Samurai. I must of upset her because now she dosen't talk to me very much.
Wow. :D You sure they didn't sell you crack? Or maybe your just trying to scare others cause you personaly talked to a gazillion doctors about the effects. In the Netherlands they produce some of the most potent 'herbs' known to man. But if you want to hallucinate, like you did, you take mushrooms. As for the addictiveness. Some will be more prone to be addicted to it then others. A friend of mine who smokes 'herbs' like others smoke cigarettes was just fine when he was stationed for 6 months in Bosnia.
Soyut
17-04-2007, 06:21
Wow. :D You sure they didn't sell you crack? Or maybe your just trying to scare others cause you personaly talked to a gazillion doctors about the effects. In the Netherlands they produce some of the most potent 'herbs' known to man. But if you want to hallucinate, like you did, you take mushrooms. As for the addictiveness. Some will be more prone to be addicted to it then others. A friend of mine who smokes 'herbs' like others smoke cigarettes was just fine when he was stationed for 6 months in Bosnia.

My friend said that I probably got bud that was laced with something else like LSD or meth. It dosen't matter anymore though cuz I'm never getting weed from that guy again.
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 06:28
My friend said that I probably got bud that was laced with something else like LSD or meth. It dosen't matter anymore though cuz I'm never getting weed from that guy again.

Actually, that is doubtful. You cannot lace bud with LSD--the LSD is destroyed by heat. Also, you would know if you were on acid. It might have been laced with meth, but it is more likely that it was just some good shit. The idea of lacing weed, and selling it to people wihtout their knowledge is somewhat ridiculous. I can uinderstand lacing personal shit, but most people would advertise laced weed, and sell it at higher prices. In any case, regarding just being really high, I personally have heard things that weren't real many a time while high, and I know people who have had panic attacks from being too high.

Hell, I've been really high and showering, and was convinced that I could hear someone drilling through my door locks. It was weird.


I also swear someone was playing drums outside my house, but my best frind (only guy nearby with a kit) was asleep at the time.
Zagat
17-04-2007, 06:52
I think that conflating compulsion with addiction muddies the water considerably. Given that addiction specifically refers to a physical status that isnt dependent on one's state of mind, it makes no sense to refer to a state of mind as an addiction. What people refer to as 'psychological addiction' isnt addiction at all, it's compulsion. To illustate the difference, I have many times overcome an addiction to nicotine, but I've never yet conquered my compulsion to smoke cigarettes.
Delator
17-04-2007, 07:06
The worst thing that happens was summed up by a friend, "When you stop smoking pot you remember what it's like to be bored."

Sounds about right to me. :p

Pot is not physically addictive.

It is habit forming, but so is nearly everything else in the world, from pixie sticks to base jumping.
Admiral Canaris
17-04-2007, 07:06
Or maybe it's just an American thing to start hallucinating when smoking weed. Thats the most likely explanation.
The Pictish Revival
17-04-2007, 07:25
For those of you who think it is not harmful. I would like to say that last month I smoked myself silly and for about 2 hours, I was convinced that there was an evil robot in my friends bedroom. It turned out to be his laptop making noise, but I still had a minor panic attack.


News just in: you are a lightweight.
Quit. More for us.

I have at least three or four smokes, just about every evening. Despite what I was always told about the harmful effects, my habit doesn't stop me working 12 or (in rare cases) 18 hours in a day. Sometimes when I go away on holiday I end up being dope-free for a week or so. Doesn't seem to cause me any problems.
Kanabia
17-04-2007, 07:32
Actually, that is doubtful. You cannot lace bud with LSD--the LSD is destroyed by heat. Also, you would know if you were on acid. It might have been laced with meth, but it is more likely that it was just some good shit. The idea of lacing weed, and selling it to people wihtout their knowledge is somewhat ridiculous. I can uinderstand lacing personal shit, but most people would advertise laced weed, and sell it at higher prices. In any case, regarding just being really high, I personally have heard things that weren't real many a time while high, and I know people who have had panic attacks from being too high.

Hell, I've been really high and showering, and was convinced that I could hear someone drilling through my door locks. It was weird.


I also swear someone was playing drums outside my house, but my best frind (only guy nearby with a kit) was asleep at the time.

Mmm...i've hallucinated a couple of times...seen ants crawling on things and the like....it was just really good weed.
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 07:53
Mmm...i've hallucinated a couple of times...seen ants crawling on things and the like....it was just really good weed.

Yeah, it happens somwtimes. I think my most startling hallucination from marijuana was seeing a trio of X-Wings flying out of my friend's shirt in psychedelic colors.



Of course, I admit that at least my experience with hallucinations could be worthless as I occasionally experience hallucinations sober.
Anti-Social Darwinism
17-04-2007, 08:00
Is Marijuana addictive?

I've never really craved marajuana, but lately all I can think about is this comming Friday which is 4/20. Am I addictited to reefer or am I just trying not to think about a stressful week ahead of me?

It's not physically addictive but it is psychologically habit forming. If you do it for an extended period and then quit, you won't have physical withdrawal symptoms, but you'll miss the high.
Free Outer Eugenia
17-04-2007, 08:11
Pot is nice to do every once in a while. Is it physically addictive? No. Maybe a little psychologically addictive. But then everything that is enjoyable is. And it is certainly not nearly as addictive caffeine, exercise and World of Warcraft.
Pure Metal
17-04-2007, 10:02
i think it depends how you use it. it is possible to become psychologically dependent on it - as in you don't think you can have a good time without it, for example, but 'coming off it' is easier than falling off a log. can't really say that for tobacco or alcoholism can you?

i smoked it daily (usually throughout the day) for over 2 years, and my problem was that i was using it to escape my other problems. in that way i was psychologically addicted to it... it was my self-medicated "cure" (pah) for depression. but when i decided to stop smoking i just stopped without a hint of difficulty. i sometimes want to smoke again (and in fact i did in Amsterdam in February) but that's purely a wanting for the good times i had while high and with friends, rather than a 'craving' so to speak.
Pure Metal
17-04-2007, 10:18
Just seems coincidental that everyone I know who smokes it is a god damned retard. Addictive? To the same extent that alcohol is I would say.


much as that's an opinion seemingly based soley on subjective observations of people you know, rather than first hand experience or medical research, there may be some truth in it...

i think smoking weed on a regular basis changes one's world view, how you think and feel about the world. one can get more apathetic in an "it'll be alright in the end" kinda way... "just chill out, man"
i'm not sure why that happens, but that's my personal experience and that of my friends. the congenial nature of the weed turned us into hippies :P

and i guess if you think thinking like that is 'retarded' then retarded we are :)

Also, Heroin kills you dead. If you can't so much as spell the name of a drug, you shouldn't be spreading misinformation about it. Heroin addicts do not survive to old age. Jimi Hendrix, for example. I don't care about the bullshit you claim about overdosing only leads to those. Heroin addicts will pretty much as a whole eventually overdose. As House once said, "Statistically, drug addicts are stupid."

man, i agree. heroin is baaad.
Contemporarydog
17-04-2007, 11:00
It's certainly not totally unaddictive, but nor is it comparable to crack or even alcohol (in addiction terms).

I'd say it was a mental addiction rather than physical. Certainly I have known stoners who get so into it that they need it every day, but if they can't get it they don't get withdrawal as bad as what alkies/crackheads/junkies get.
Ifreann
17-04-2007, 11:24
No more than any other (equally) enjoyable activity.
DHomme
17-04-2007, 11:24
Depends what you mean by addictive.

Will your body start to rely on THC to function, making withdrawals physically damaging? No.

However, it is very easy to form a habit with weed, I should know (smoking about a tenbag a day, trying to cut down). But does that habit make you an addict? No, it just makes you a habitual user, which is a much more fun title. Pot "addicts" are just as capable of functioning in the normal world remember, i smoke weed everyday and still get A's. My brother got a 2-1 from oxford while smoking every day.

Eh, whatever.
Peepelonia
17-04-2007, 12:40
Is Marijuana addictive?

I've never really craved marajuana, but lately all I can think about is this comming Friday which is 4/20. Am I addictited to reefer or am I just trying not to think about a stressful week ahead of me?

Hell yes!
The Last Boyscout
17-04-2007, 12:47
Coffee is more addictive than Marijuana. There are no physical symptoms when you discontinue marijuana use. Caffeine on the other hand will leave you with a bitch of a headache at the least if you discontinue use after only a few weeks of regular ingestion.
Bottle
17-04-2007, 12:48
Is Marijuana addictive?

I've never really craved marajuana, but lately all I can think about is this comming Friday which is 4/20. Am I addictited to reefer or am I just trying not to think about a stressful week ahead of me?
Marijuana is not physiologically addictive.

However, many things can be psychologically addictive. Gambling, for instance. You can become psychologically addicted to something that doesn't actually "addict" your body.
Isidoor
17-04-2007, 16:23
i knew some guy who couldn't go to sleep without smoking marijuana, so guess he was addicted. but0 i also know regular smokers who can't act normal without sigarets, so i wouldn't call it that addictive.
Slaughterhouse five
17-04-2007, 16:57
i have had a few friends that quite for school while they are going to school. or at least they try to. it last for about a month and then all of a sudden they are back into it. their quiting never seems to last long. so in a way i will have to say it is addictive.
Snafturi
17-04-2007, 17:06
Phisically, I don't think so. I haven't seen any research that says it is.
Mentally, probably. If you talk to recovering addicts, no matter their drug of choice, they miss pot the most. I don't know if there's any scientific data to back it up, so I can't be certain.

I didn't vote. There was no maybe option.
Ultraviolent Radiation
17-04-2007, 17:19
Is Marijuana addictive?

I've never really craved marajuana, but lately all I can think about is this comming Friday which is 4/20. Am I addictited to reefer or am I just trying not to think about a stressful week ahead of me?

From what I've heard, it's not physically addictive. However, I also heard that people smoke it mixed with tobacco, which is addictive. Someone I know became addicted to nicotine through smoking cannabis.
Infinite Revolution
17-04-2007, 17:25
it's not chemically addictive but it is possible to become psychologically dependent on it. i was in my first year of uni, got myself into a state of mind where i couldn't sleep unless i got stoned and i didn't feel like facing the day without being stoned. needless to say i was stoned all the time. didn't do me any good really but as far as i can tell didn't do me any bad either, all the bad stuff that has happened to me has been from alcohol. well, apart from the scar under my eyebrow.

anyway, i went back home for the summer and didn't have any withdrawal symptoms whatsoever, from smoking 6-7 spliffs per day to nothing.
Ashekelon
17-04-2007, 17:37
ah, that blessed mary jane.

let me tell you a little story, about an aries who used to take things a little too far. an aries filled with fiery passion and a zest for life, who could and would do anything and everything to the max.

enter the marijuana.

i like marijuana. i credit marijuana for helping me quit my excessive drinking habit(s). marijuana also helped me to learn a lot about myself, to quiet down a bit, to understand the point to yoga and meditation, and to relax.

however

marijuana stole my edge. robbed my fire. left a black crater where my passion used to be. my house is in disrepair. my career is coasting. my wife is bored with our marraige and looking for excitement elsewhere.

just be aware, i guess is what i'm saying. marijuana vents your chi and this is the true cause of 'amotivational syndrome' -- my experiments indicate that it takes 4 to 7 days of abstinance to recharge the central core after a smoking a single bowl/joint of marijuana. the chronics don't have a chance.
Andaluciae
17-04-2007, 17:41
I highly doubt its physically addictive. Psykological is another matter though, as escapism is indeed addictive.

Troof.
Greater Trostia
17-04-2007, 17:50
I think "psychological addiction" is a bunch of bunk.
CthulhuFhtagn
17-04-2007, 17:52
Which would only be the result of an overdose.


And that makes it not harmful how? By your logic, cyanide isn't harmful, because only a certain dosage is fatal.
Infinite Revolution
17-04-2007, 17:56
I think "psychological addiction" is a bunch of bunk.

well i think it's a poor choice of words. addiction suggests it is something that is really quite unpleasant to kick, and not in the same way as dog shit. psychological dependency is more accurate i reckon.
Greater Trostia
17-04-2007, 17:57
well i think it's a poor choice of words. addiction suggests it is something that is really quite unpleasant to kick, and not in the same way as dog shit. psychological dependency is more accurate i reckon.

"Psychological dependency" is bunk too. No matter what the name, it's just a victim-culture euphemism for "I don't feel like being blamed for my behavior, I'm a victiiiiim!"
Infinite Revolution
17-04-2007, 18:04
"Psychological dependency" is bunk too. No matter what the name, it's just a victim-culture euphemism for "I don't feel like being blamed for my behavior, I'm a victiiiiim!"

no i don't think so. i use dependency to describe my relationship with the stuff when i was in my first year of uni, i don't use it to displace responsibility, i'm fully aware that i was using weed to forget about all the stuff i needed to do and to solve my insomnia, it worked so i was dependent then on weed to solve those things for me. addiction suggests something that is outwith one's control, dependency does not imo. it's a simple fact that some people latch on to things that give them good feelings or a form of escape. that is dependency and it can be broken by simply finding something else or just taking control of oneself. with some substance this can lead to addiction though, the great thing about weed is it doesn't become addictive.
Greater Trostia
17-04-2007, 18:10
no i don't think so. i use dependency to describe my relationship with the stuff when i was in my first year of uni, i don't use it to displace responsibility, i'm fully aware that i was using weed to forget about all the stuff i needed to do and to solve my insomnia, it worked so i was dependent then on weed to solve those things for me. addiction suggests something that is outwith one's control, dependency does not imo. it's a simple fact that some people latch on to things that give them good feelings or a form of escape. that is dependency and it can be broken by simply finding something else or just taking control of oneself. with some substance this can lead to addiction though, the great thing about weed is it doesn't become addictive.

But it's not a dependency. You stop taking heroin after regular use, you can just flat-out DIE. That's dependency. You stop taking weed, and you have trouble sleeping. That's just whining.

The problem with calling non-addictive things "dependencies" is it creates the illusion that you actually need them. It reinforces abuse. And it opens the way for any action on earth to be a "dependency," which is nonsense. People need to control themselves and their behavior, and calling everything a dependency or addiction is the first step to depriving them of that control.
Ashekelon
17-04-2007, 18:10
"Psychological dependency" is bunk too. No matter what the name, it's just a victim-culture euphemism for "I don't feel like being blamed for my behavior, I'm a victiiiiim!"

i take full responsibility for my marijuana/drug use.

and, i do agree that marijuana is psychologically attractive. discontinuing marijuana does not result in physical discomfort like some other drugs do, but the mind is numb and dissociated for a LONG TIME. life seems cheerless and uninteresting. time is so s-l--o---w----- ...that the argument to scorch another bowl becomes quite compelling around day two or three. by day seven this is nearly forgotten, but only if another passion replaces the desire for marijuana, to make life seem interesting.

and quite honestly, there are few things that fit that bill. yoga maybe.
Kryozerkia
17-04-2007, 18:17
Is Marijuana addictive?

I've never really craved marajuana, but lately all I can think about is this comming Friday which is 4/20. Am I addictited to reefer or am I just trying not to think about a stressful week ahead of me?

It is not addictive physically, but it can be psychologically addictive, but th chance of it being addictive is low.

From what I understand, it is emotionally addictive but you do not typically develop a chemical dependency on it. However, from what I've heard, the addiction becomes physical if you have sex while high.

Having sex while high will NOT make you addicted. I've done both at the same time and if anything it makes you giddy and listless in sex and the guy... well, kind of useless. It was amusing nonetheless.

For those of you who think it is not harmful. I would like to say that last month I smoked myself silly and for about 2 hours, I was convinced that there was an evil robot in my friends bedroom. It turned out to be his laptop making noise, but I still had a minor panic attack.

And another time when I was really high, I gave my roommate's Japanese girlfriend a lecture about ancient Samurai. I must of upset her because now she dosen't talk to me very much.

Ok, weed makes you say stupid shit, but you know what? At least you're aware of the fact that you're stupid while you do weed, and as for your weird little trip... I'll have to admit, that makes you sound like such a lightweight. Back off and leave the weed to the professional potheads.
Luporum
17-04-2007, 18:18
And that makes it not harmful how? By your logic, cyanide isn't harmful, because only a certain dosage is fatal.

By your logic coffee is fatal because it is after 36 cups :p
Infinite Revolution
17-04-2007, 18:20
But it's not a dependency. You stop taking heroin after regular use, you can just flat-out DIE. That's dependency. You stop taking weed, and you have trouble sleeping. That's just whining.

The problem with calling non-addictive things "dependencies" is it creates the illusion that you actually need them. It reinforces abuse. And it opens the way for any action on earth to be a "dependency," which is nonsense. People need to control themselves and their behavior, and calling everything a dependency or addiction is the first step to depriving them of that control.

yeh, but you're leaving off the psychological bit. psychological dependency means it's all in your mind, just like hypochondria and the placebo effect. to me that undermines any bid to absolve the dependant's responsibility. just because i felt like i needed to smoke weed in order to fall asleep does not make it true and i fully appreciate that, i was still psychologically dependent though because when i couldn't get any i couldn't sleep because all i could think of was i needed some weed.
Infinite Revolution
17-04-2007, 18:21
i take full responsibility for my marijuana/drug use.

and, i do agree that marijuana is psychologically attractive. discontinuing marijuana does not result in physical discomfort like some other drugs do, but the mind is numb and dissociated for a LONG TIME. life seems cheerless and uninteresting. time is so s-l--o---w----- ...that the argument to scorch another bowl becomes quite compelling around day two or three. by day seven this is nearly forgotten, but only if another passion replaces the desire for marijuana, to make life seem interesting.

and quite honestly, there are few things that fit that bill. yoga maybe.

i found days on the beach drinking sangria worked wonders ;)
Smunkeeville
17-04-2007, 18:25
Woaw. Are you serious? Cuz I only smoke like once a week, but still...

man, when I was like 12-14 I smoked pot like other people smoked cigarettes, I spent like $75 a week on it......I was perpetually high. I am pretty sure I thought nobody knew too.
CthulhuFhtagn
17-04-2007, 18:28
By your logic coffee is fatal because it is after 36 cups :p

Nope. Because it's physically impossible to consume that much coffee in the needed time period.
Greater Trostia
17-04-2007, 18:31
yeh, but you're leaving off the psychological bit. psychological dependency means it's all in your mind, just like hypochondria and the placebo effect

No, not really. Depression is a psychological disorder, but it's not like the placebo effect - it is (or can be) a genuine, neurological dysfunction. Psychology also includes everything like schizophrenia, which is *very* much a physical, measurable, tangible thing.

to me that undermines any bid to absolve the dependant's responsibility.

Heh well, society takes things a different way than you or I. Remember that South Park episode with Stan's dad and alcoholism? People just naturally want to avoid responsibility, so any excuse to do so - including chocoholism, workaholicism, any other 'psychological dependency' given a name and "ism," - is seized upon by people. Not just the "dependent" people either, but people who want to capitalize on the confusion and general weak-mindedness.


i was still psychologically dependent though because when i couldn't get any i couldn't sleep because all i could think of was i needed some weed.

Often I can't get sleep because all I can think of is accounting principles.

As often, it's because all I can think of is this girl I know...

But I am not "dependent" or addicted to either accounting or this girl. Preoccupation doesn't equate to anything other than preoccupation.
Luporum
17-04-2007, 18:52
Nope. Because it's physically impossible to consume that much coffee in the needed time period.

Bad example, well then...

By your logic water is lethal.
CthulhuFhtagn
17-04-2007, 18:56
Bad example, well then...

By your logic water is lethal.

Nope. I never claimed that heroin is lethal. I claimed it was harmful. Water is also harmful, if it enters the lungs.
Luporum
17-04-2007, 19:02
Nope. I never claimed that heroin is lethal. I claimed it was harmful. Water is also harmful, if it enters the lungs.

It doesn't have to enter the lungs to be lethal. Just consuming too much is very fatal. (See that woman who died just recently in a water chugging contest).

While Heroine is a dangerous drug, I'm just saying it's real harm comes from the incredible dependence the user has on it. And the means of injection. Outside of that it was once deemed a perfect substitute for morphine, until they saw how addicting it is.
CthulhuFhtagn
17-04-2007, 19:06
It doesn't have to enter the lungs to be lethal. Just consuming too much is very fatal. (See that woman who died just recently in a water chugging contest).
That death wasn't related to drinking the water. She died because she didn't get rid of the water.

I'm just saying it's real harm comes from the incredible dependence the user has on it. And the means of injection.
And you're wrong on that point, since it has an enormous array of dangerous side effects.

Outside of that it was once deemed a perfect substitute for morphine, until they saw how addicting it is.
And cocaine was once deemed safe before it was learned that it had a tendency to kill or cripple people who took it.
Soyut
17-04-2007, 20:48
Today I picked up a booklet at my university's health clinic. It's called "The Truth About Drugs." This is what it says about Marijuana.

"Cannibis
-affects thinking and behavior

Some effects:

increased heart rate, lowered body temperature, loss of coordination
confusion, distortion of reality
paranoia, depression, panic
hallucinations, if large doses are used


Hazards

pyschological addiction and the need for increased amounts of the drug
overdose, leading to a psychosis-like state
chronic lung disease and possibly lung cancer


Marijuana smoke is extremely toxic
The cancer-causing chemicals in tobacco smoke are also found in marijuana smoke, often in greater amounts. For example, marijuana smoke contains 2 times as much tar as tobacco smoke.

*There is a picture of a man looking down and holding his head*"


I thought it was interesting that it said nothing about how good it makes you feel. And it dosen't mention that it makes you really hungry either.
Luporum
17-04-2007, 20:59
I thought it was interesting that it said nothing about how good it makes you feel.

It's illegal why the hell would they?

And you're wrong on that point, since it has an enormous array of dangerous side effects.

The last time they were listed the only side effects worth noting were those in the case of overdosing. I'm not defending heroine, lord knows, but compared to coke, meth, and acid it's pretty tame.
Kryozerkia
17-04-2007, 21:01
This is a good reference site if you want information on Cannabis and other narcotics.

This link will take you to the info on Cannabis.

Cannabis (http://www.erowid.org/plants/cannabis/cannabis.shtml)

And for a balanced list of effects, both good and bad... Clicky! (http://www.erowid.org/plants/cannabis/cannabis_effects.shtml)
Cannot think of a name
17-04-2007, 21:05
Today I picked up a booklet at my university's health clinic. It's called "The Truth About Drugs." This is what it says about Marijuana.

"Cannibis
-affects thinking and behavior

Some effects:

increased heart rate, lowered body temperature, loss of coordination
confusion, distortion of reality
paranoia, depression, panic
hallucinations, if large doses are used


Hazards

pyschological addiction and the need for increased amounts of the drug
overdose, leading to a psychosis-like state
chronic lung disease and possibly lung cancer


Marijuana smoke is extremely toxic
The cancer-causing chemicals in tobacco smoke are also found in marijuana smoke, often in greater amounts. For example, marijuana smoke contains 2 times as much tar as tobacco smoke.

*There is a picture of a man looking down and holding his head*"


I thought it was interesting that it said nothing about how good it makes you feel. And it dosen't mention that it makes you really hungry either.

You'd have to smoke a joint the size of a zeppelin straight to your head to O.D.

The lung problem is a, well, problem. You don't smoke them like cigarettes, or really shouldn't. If you're a 'pack a day' pot smoker it might be a problem for you. But you can use vaporizers or eat it. Yay for eating it. I'm too lazy to do that but I really should.
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 21:05
Today I picked up a booklet at my university's health clinic. It's called "The Truth About Drugs." This is what it says about Marijuana.

"Cannibis
-affects thinking and behavior

Some effects:

increased heart rate, lowered body temperature, loss of coordination
confusion, distortion of reality
paranoia, depression, panic
hallucinations, if large doses are used


Hazards

pyschological addiction and the need for increased amounts of the drug
overdose, leading to a psychosis-like state
chronic lung disease and possibly lung cancer


Marijuana smoke is extremely toxic
The cancer-causing chemicals in tobacco smoke are also found in marijuana smoke, often in greater amounts. For example, marijuana smoke contains 2 times as much tar as tobacco smoke.

*There is a picture of a man looking down and holding his head*"


I thought it was interesting that it said nothing about how good it makes you feel. And it dosen't mention that it makes you really hungry either.


Yeah. Also, it should mention the desire to build shit. I don't know about you, but me and all my friends love to build bigger and better smoking devices after getting really high.


Also, the munchies are one of the worst side-effects of marijuana.


I hate those pamphlets, though. They're real ridiculous, and if anything, convince people that since the negative effects of drugs like cannabis are so overstated, the negative effects of most other, more harmful drugs must be overstated as well. Sad thing is, often they are.
Soyut
17-04-2007, 21:07
It's illegal why the hell would they?

becuase health services should be honest.

The last time they were listed the only side effects worth noting were those in the case of overdosing. I'm not defending heroine, lord knows, but compared to coke, meth, and acid it's pretty tame.

Yeah, I guess overdose means that you get so stoned that you can't hold the bong in front of your face. Its happened before.
Luporum
17-04-2007, 21:10
Yeah. Also, it should mention the desire to build shit. I don't know about you, but me and all my friends love to build bigger and better smoking devices after getting really high.

I hate those pamphlets, though. They're real ridiculous, and if anything, convince people that since the negative effects of drugs like cannabis are so overstated, the negative effects of most other, more harmful drugs must be overstated as well. Sad thing is, often they are.

Um wut?

becuase health services should be honest.

Weed doesn't even do anything for a lot of people, or so I've heard.

Yeah, I guess overdose means that you get so stoned that you can't hold the bong in front of your face. Its happened before.

Or vomit like the exorcist.
Kryozerkia
17-04-2007, 21:11
You'd have to smoke a joint the size of a zeppelin straight to your head to O.D.

The lung problem is a, well, problem. You don't smoke them like cigarettes, or really shouldn't. If you're a 'pack a day' pot smoker it might be a problem for you. But you can use vaporizers or eat it. Yay for eating it. I'm too lazy to do that but I really should.

I find sharing a glass pipe works well...

Then again, it could be that we don't have to smoke outside. We just use empty toilet paper rolls with a dryer sheet fastened to the end with an elastic to mask the odour and blow the smoke out the window. Most of it lingers though even if the smell has been masked...

Glass pipe FTW.
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 21:12
The last time they were listed the only side effects worth noting were those in the case of overdosing. I'm not defending heroine, lord knows, but compared to coke, meth, and acid it's pretty tame.


(emphasis mine)

I don't know about all that. Are you talking physuical side effects? Acid has none, or they are negligible. Are you talking about mental effects? Yes, some people have psychotic breaks when on acid. Yes, some people become mentally unhinged due to use of LSD. However, if one uses LSD in moderation, and only when one is in a stable mental state and is somewhat content with their life, it can actually be a great tool for exploration. Hell, some people can do it in a completely fucked mental state and be fine.


And it also is ridiculously fun.
Luporum
17-04-2007, 21:13
(emphasis mine)

I don't know about all that. Are you talking physuical side effects? Acid has none, or they are negligible. Are you talking about mental effects? Yes, some people have psychotic breaks when on acid. Yes, some people become mentally unhinged due to use of LSD. However, if one uses LSD in moderation, and only when one is in a stable mental state and is somewhat content with their life, it can actually be a great tool for exploration. Hell, some people can do it in a completely fucked mental state and be fine.


And it also is ridiculously fun.

Someone defending the usage of PCP and LSD, that's a mother fucking first.
Cannot think of a name
17-04-2007, 21:14
(emphasis mine)

I don't know about all that. Are you talking physuical side effects? Acid has none, or they are negligible. Are you talking about mental effects? Yes, some people have psychotic breaks when on acid. Yes, some people become mentally unhinged due to use of LSD. However, if one uses LSD in moderation, and only when one is in a stable mental state and is somewhat content with their life, it can actually be a great tool for exploration. Hell, some people can do it in a completely fucked mental state and be fine.


And it also is ridiculously fun.
This happens every time acid is mentioned, some jackass comes along and says, "I prefer shrums" with some silly arguments like 'Its natural" etc.

I'm that jackass this time. Though I don't use the 'natural' thing. The downward slope on shrums isn't as long, I don't get that metal taste on my tongue...mostly with acid I find myself done with the drug before it's done with me. I get a headier feeling with shrums, I can control the intensity a little better and after 8 hours it leaves me alone.

Was there a point to that? Does it make shrums 'better' or acid 'worse'? Nope, just pointless rambling about a personal preference. Sorry...carry on.
Soyut
17-04-2007, 21:16
Yeah. Also, it should mention the desire to build shit. I don't know about you, but me and all my friends love to build bigger and better smoking devices after getting really high.

Yeah, I always try to engage people in discussion of historical and scientific topics, like the great chicago fire or how the international sace station works. But I'm usually too high to make any sense. My friends call me "professor chris" when I am high.


I hate those pamphlets, though. They're real ridiculous, and if anything, convince people that since the negative effects of drugs like cannabis are so overstated, the negative effects of most other, more harmful drugs must be overstated as well. Sad thing is, often they are.

I know seriously. With a few exceptions(heroin, meth) drugs don't really hurt people, stupid self-indulgent people just hurt themselves.
Luporum
17-04-2007, 21:16
I know seriously. With a few exceptions(heroin, meth) drugs don't really hurt people, stupid self-indulgent people just hurt themselves.

My sister is in a rehab clinic with th shakes because she's going through withdrawl from heroine...
Prezman50
17-04-2007, 21:18
well, marijuana is totally unaddictive. Smoked it like 6 times and then just stopped, and nothing happened to me. Those six times were over a 3 month period.
Cannot think of a name
17-04-2007, 21:19
I find sharing a glass pipe works well...

Then again, it could be that we don't have to smoke outside. We just use empty toilet paper rolls with a dryer sheet fastened to the end with an elastic to mask the odour and blow the smoke out the window. Most of it lingers though even if the smell has been masked...

Glass pipe FTW.

I like glass.

I'm a grown ass man, so often I don't have to hide my smoke. Now I do because I'm one of only two smokers in a 4 dude household and I live in the living room so if I light up it will permeate the house, but I use a vaporizer (though I have to admit I have a drier sheet roll in the bathroom just in case.)

I just got that vaporizer and I dig it. The only thing I don't like is that it takes about 4X as long to smoke but it's pretty efficient.
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 21:23
Um wut?

Were you referring to the first or the second part of my post? If the first, well, all of my friends like to imagine (and build) bigger and better smoking devices, you know, like using tubing to connect a couple of bongs for double filtration, or creating a really nice bong out of household materials...


If the second part, well, that pamphlet does list the negative effects of smoking marijuana. However, most people will not experience (or notice) most of those effects if they smoke only occasionally. And some people will then say "this is all bullshit, and therefore, everything any authority figure says about drugs is bullshit." Then, these people think that maybe heroin or cocaine isn't as bad as all that...basically, it boils down to people being fucking idiots.


Which they are.
Kryozerkia
17-04-2007, 21:24
If the second part, well, that pamphlet does list the negative effects of smoking marijuana. However, most people will not experience (or notice) most of those effects if they smoke only occasionally. And some people will then say "this is all bullshit, and therefore, everything any authority figure says about drugs is bullshit." Then, these people think that maybe heroin or cocaine isn't as bad as all that...basically, it boils down to people being fucking idiots.
I smoke weed almost everyday, though I have gone without with no withdrawal symptoms. Now, I haven't experienced many of the "negative" side effects. They say it causes headaches, it helped me when I had one.

Yes, it does make you confused and I've experienced this, but I don't consider this a bad thing because it makes you think twice before doing stupid shit...
Soyut
17-04-2007, 21:25
Has anybody ever hot-boxed anything? I hot-boxed a life gaurd hut on the beach one time with the aid of a shower curtain.
Luporum
17-04-2007, 21:25
Were you referring to the first or the second part of my post? If the first, well, all of my friends like to imagine (and build) bigger and better smoking devices, you know, like using tubing to connect a couple of bongs for double filtration, or creating a really nice bong out of household materials...


If the second part, well, that pamphlet does list the negative effects of smoking marijuana. However, most people will not experience (or notice) most of those effects if they smoke only occasionally. And some people will then say "this is all bullshit, and therefore, everything any authority figure says about drugs is bullshit." Then, these people think that maybe heroin or cocaine isn't as bad as all that...basically, it boils down to people being fucking idiots.


Which they are.

I hate those pamphlets, though. They're real ridiculous, and if anything, convince people that since the negative effects of drugs like cannabis are so overstated, the negative effects of most other, more harmful drugs must be overstated as well. Sad thing is, often they are.

I thought you were saying that the side effects of harmful drugs are often overstated, and that just confused the living hell out of me.
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 21:27
This happens every time acid is mentioned, some jackass comes along and says, "I prefer shrums" with some silly arguments like 'Its natural" etc.

I'm that jackass this time. Though I don't use the 'natural' thing. The downward slope on shrums isn't as long, I don't get that metal taste on my tongue...mostly with acid I find myself done with the drug before it's done with me. I get a headier feeling with shrums, I can control the intensity a little better and after 8 hours it leaves me alone.

Was there a point to that? Does it make shrums 'better' or acid 'worse'? Nope, just pointless rambling about a personal preference. Sorry...carry on.



Yeah, a lot of people come up with ridiculous arguments for why oe drug is better than another. However, to an extent I agree with you. I love mushrooms. To me, the trip feels more...I don't know...introspective, I suppose. Also, sometimes with acid, after six hours of hard tripping you just want to not be high anymore. I don't know what you mean about a "metal taste" though.

In any case, it really is only a matter of personal preference, and I do indeed usually prefer acid. It's just too bad my area is dry right now...
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 21:29
Someone defending the usage of PCP and LSD, that's a mother fucking first.

Where did I ever defend use of PCP? I'm confused.

I am especially confused because PCP could hardly be called a hallucinogen, any more than MDMA is a hallucinogen. PCP is a disassociative.


And it certainly isn't a first, there are plenty of people defending use of psychedelic drugs.
Cannot think of a name
17-04-2007, 21:31
Yeah, a lot of people come up with ridiculous arguments for why oe drug is better than another. However, to an extent I agree with you. I love mushrooms. To me, the trip feels more...I don't know...introspective, I suppose. Also, sometimes with acid, after six hours of hard tripping you just want to not be high anymore.
My beef in a nutshell.
I don't know what you mean about a "metal taste" though.

Every time I've done it I get this odd, metalic taste on my tongue, like a numbing or like I've been licking a lamp post. I asked around, and no one saw me licking a lamp post, so I assume for me at least it's a side effect of taking the acid. Might be the method, since I usually did tabs, but I think I got the same feeling from a sugar cube too. Maybe not. It's been a while.

Actually, things are going fairly okay right now, I feel good about more things than I feel bad about, more or less in control. It might be time for 'shrums again. It has been a while. Hmmm...
Cannot think of a name
17-04-2007, 21:33
Has anybody ever hot-boxed anything? I hot-boxed a life gaurd hut on the beach one time with the aid of a shower curtain.

I own a '67 VW Camper Bus. Hot boxing that thing is like a tourist attraction...
Luporum
17-04-2007, 21:35
Any thread with the word 'drug' in it, always breaks down to this. Oh well, could be worse. :D

I'm leaving to go recharge my brain cells.
Fleckenstein
17-04-2007, 21:36
Has anybody ever hot-boxed anything? I hot-boxed a life gaurd hut on the beach one time with the aid of a shower curtain.

How did anyone not notice? :D
Pan-Arab Barronia
17-04-2007, 21:39
A friend of mine + co-stoners hotboxed his toilet before in an all night party.
How his parents didn't notice I shall never know.

They also managed to hotbox his car at some point that night.
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 21:39
I smoke weed almost everyday, though I have gone without with no withdrawal symptoms. Now, I haven't experienced many of the "negative" side effects. They say it causes headaches, it helped me when I had one.

Yes, it does make you confused and I've experienced this, but I don't consider this a bad thing because it makes you think twice before doing stupid shit...

I've gotten a headache before, but only from smoking resin.

I agree, I smoke most days, and it is very rare that I experience any negative symptom, but I have gotten high with people who have had negative symptoms inculdig depression and extreme paranoia.
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 21:44
My beef in a nutshell.


Every time I've done it I get this odd, metalic taste on my tongue, like a numbing or like I've been licking a lamp post. I asked around, and no one saw me licking a lamp post, so I assume for me at least it's a side effect of taking the acid. Might be the method, since I usually did tabs, but I think I got the same feeling from a sugar cube too. Maybe not. It's been a while.

Actually, things are going fairly okay right now, I feel good about more things than I feel bad about, more or less in control. It might be time for 'shrums again. It has been a while. Hmmm...

Thats real strange. I've never noticed that, although I mostly can first feel the acid in my teeth. Or my legs. I've eaten tabs and done liquid (on sugar cubes and taffy), and no hint of metal. The closest I've come was some bitter tabs, but they might have been DOx and not even LSD. Probably LSD though.


Yeah, I'm looking for some mush...in fact, I am about to get some. I'm contemplating attempting to use them to look at some problems I have, exploring my psyche and all that. However, if the trip turns to fun, well, I'm not complaining.
Andaluciae
17-04-2007, 21:45
The one thing I don't get is the argument that it's not harmful, though. I mean, how the hell could taking any sort of smoke into your body not be harmful? Smoke is particles of stuff, and having particles of anything in your lungs is bad news in my book.
Cannot think of a name
17-04-2007, 21:47
The one thing I don't get is the argument that it's not harmful, though. I mean, how the hell could taking any sort of smoke into your body not be harmful? Smoke is particles of stuff, and having particles of anything in your lungs is bad news in my book.

Then eat it. The method isn't the drug, especially when there are other methods to do it.
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 21:48
Has anybody ever hot-boxed anything? I hot-boxed a life gaurd hut on the beach one time with the aid of a shower curtain.

Yeah, a bathroom (took a couple blunts, but worth it), and a friends car. When that car was boxed, I couldn't see my friend's legs.



I also know people who have climbed into a box for equipment at a baseball field near by, and hotboxed it. I never have myself, because that thing is too small to be comfortable in.



Oh yeah, I almost forgot when me and a buddy hotboxed his fridge.
Pan-Arab Barronia
17-04-2007, 21:50
The one thing I don't get is the argument that it's not harmful, though. I mean, how the hell could taking any sort of smoke into your body not be harmful? Smoke is particles of stuff, and having particles of anything in your lungs is bad news in my book.

Just a question...do you breathe at all?
Andaluciae
17-04-2007, 21:50
Then eat it. The method isn't the drug, especially when there are other methods to do it.

Except smoking is indeed the dominant, and easiest, method of marijuana use.

Personally, I have no desire to ever use marijuana, and as such, I won't.
Andaluciae
17-04-2007, 21:51
Just a question...do you breathe at all?

Yeah, but I don't go out of my way to suck in abnormal levels of particulates, which is what smoking anything is.
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 21:52
The one thing I don't get is the argument that it's not harmful, though. I mean, how the hell could taking any sort of smoke into your body not be harmful? Smoke is particles of stuff, and having particles of anything in your lungs is bad news in my book.

Well, I agree, smoking anything is not healthy. However, there are many other methods of getting high. There is vaporising, which means all you inhale (if you do it right) is THC vapor, there is hashish and hash oil, which is basically purified THC (meaning you get much more fucked up from a much smaller amount, and there is a much lower amount of vegetable matter), and there is eating your weed. All of these reduce or elinate the risks of smoking.
Zagat
17-04-2007, 21:52
If the second part, well, that pamphlet does list the negative effects of smoking marijuana. However, most people will not experience (or notice) most of those effects if they smoke only occasionally. And some people will then say "this is all bullshit, and therefore, everything any authority figure says about drugs is bullshit." Then, these people think that maybe heroin or cocaine isn't as bad as all that...basically, it boils down to people being fucking idiots.


Which they are.
The warnings are quite often true, although fortunately only for a small selection of the population, so often the evidence appears contrary to the warnings. The problem is that drug policy takes a 'one size fits all' approach. In medicine the most promising modern research appears to be moving away from 'one size fits all', but no one should expect that to have any effect on public drug policy, reality so very rarely does.
Pan-Arab Barronia
17-04-2007, 21:54
Yeah, but I don't go out of my way to suck in abnormal levels of particulates, which is what smoking anything is.

To be fair, just walking down a city street is, in my opinion, sucking in abnormal levels of particulates.
Andaluciae
17-04-2007, 21:56
To be fair, just walking down a city street is, in my opinion, sucking in abnormal levels of particulates.

Far fewer than sticking a flaming bit of plant matter in your mouth though. Smoking anything has the smoker inhaling actual, visible quantities of particulates. On a common, day-to-day basis, your average person only inhales a meager portion of that.
Grape-eaters
17-04-2007, 21:59
Except smoking is indeed the dominant, and easiest, method of marijuana use.

Personally, I have no desire to ever use marijuana, and as such, I won't.

Yes, this is true. However, the point is that there are other routes of administration that work as well, if not better, than smoking, and are heathier. Besides, one can get a great hash oil (in small amounts) with about half an hour, a pen tube, and a can of butane. The only thing that would be different for large amounts is the size of the tube. Also, eating weed is easy as hell. All you need are a cracker, two slices of cheese, marijuana, and a microwave or oven.
Pan-Arab Barronia
17-04-2007, 22:00
Far fewer than sticking a flaming bit of plant matter in your mouth though. Smoking anything has the smoker inhaling actual, visible quantities of particulates. On a common, day-to-day basis, your average person only inhales a meager portion of that.

Touche.
Cannot think of a name
17-04-2007, 22:01
Also, eating weed is easy as hell. All you need are a cracker, two slices of cheese, marijuana, and a microwave or oven.

Really? That's way easier than cannibutter...


um...




...brb...
Soyut
18-04-2007, 03:43
The one thing I don't get is the argument that it's not harmful, though. I mean, how the hell could taking any sort of smoke into your body not be harmful? Smoke is particles of stuff, and having particles of anything in your lungs is bad news in my book.

That is 100% true. smoking cigarettes, pot, burning incense and even eating a hamburger cooked with charcoal exposes you to known cancer causing agents. Cigarettes are about x10 worse than any of those others though.
Grape-eaters
18-04-2007, 03:50
Really? That's way easier than cannibutter...


um...




...brb...



Be warned, however: this stuff doesn't taste all that great.
Lame Bums
18-04-2007, 05:52
I haven't smoked myself--but I've had plenty of friends who did. All it did to them was make them all want to eat about 25 Big Mac's and then go to bed.