National Commission on Marihuana and Drug Abuse

Marihuana: A Signal of Misunderstanding

Chapter III

Social Impact of marihuana use

WHY SOCIETY FEELS THREATENED

Society appears to be concerned about marihuana use primarily because of its perceived relationship to other social problems. We noted in the discussion of marihuana and public health that the focus of social concern should be the heavy users and the possibility that their numbers will increase. Here we consider the perceived impact of marihuana use upon the institutions and proclaimed goals of the society.