Here is the essay instructions:

Pretend that you are writing an article for the local news outlet in your hometown.
In your article, provide sufficient information to inform the reader about the topic, including the current controversies, and develop an argument that supports your answer to this question: Do you think that marijuana or hallucinogens have value in modern medicine?
In your article, try convincing your hometown of your viewpoint using evidence from academic sources.
When composing your article, try focusing on:
Applying the skills you practiced in the Module #3 Writing Guides and Discussion #6 to develop a convincing argument.
Utilizing compelling, accurate evidence to support your argument. Ensure that the majority of evidence used is scholarly (e.g., if you incorporate three sources, ensure that two of the three sources are scholarly). If you have any questions about whether a source can be considered scholarly, ask your instructor or your classmates using the Class Discussion board.
Using logic to build your argument by thoroughly discussing any evidence reported.
Continuing to practice paraphrasing, as discussed in Module 2. Try to avoid using any direct quotations in this assignment.
Format guidelines: Arial font size 11; 1” margins; single-spaced. Length: 1 page maximum. There is no minimum length requirement; however, assignments are designed such that fully developed ideas will likely require ¾ - 1 pages.
Please cite any sources through in-text citations and include a reference list containing the full citation for each source following the end of your essay (it’s okay if your references extend to a second page).


How did I do?

As discussions heat up in our town surrounding the medicinal value of cannabis and hallucinogens, it is essential to examine the evidence to determine their potential fit in modern medical practice. Skeptics cite psychoactive properties and potential for abuse, while proponents highlight therapeutic benefits.
Both cannabis and hallucinogens are classified as Schedule I substances under the Controlled Substances Act, identifying them as having a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. However, emerging research challenges these notions, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits. Research on cannabinoids, the active compounds in cannabis, shows analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Studies indicate effectiveness for managing chronic pain, inflammation, and neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis and epilepsy (Caulkins, Jonathan P., et al., 2016).
Psilocybin, found in certain mushrooms, shows promise in mental health. Clinical trials of psilocybin-assisted therapy demonstrate significant reductions in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, with improvements in overall well-being for those with treatment-resistant mental illnesses (Griffiths, Roland R., et al., 2016).
Despite the stigma, compelling evidence supports the therapeutic value of cannabis and hallucinogens. Leveraging their pharmacological properties, researchers can develop novel treatments for conditions poorly managed by conventional therapies. Legalizing and regulating these substances for medical use could provide patients with safe, legal access to potentially life-changing treatments and generate substantial revenue while easing the burden on the criminal justice system.
In conclusion, the evidence supports the significant contributions of cannabis and hallucinogens to modern medicine. Adopting evidence-based drug policies and research can unlock their potential as tools for promoting health. Policymakers and healthcare professionals should recognize these benefits, paving the way for their responsible integration into mainstream medical practice for the benefit of communities worldwide.
Works Cited
Booth, Martin. Cannabis: A History. St. Martin's Press, 2005.
Caulkins, Jonathan P., et al. Marijuana Legalization: What Everyone Needs to Know. Oxford University Press, 2016.
Griffiths, Roland R., et al. "Psilocybin Produces Substantial and Sustained Decreases in Depression and Anxiety in Patients with Life-Threatening Cancer: A Randomized Double-Blind Trial." Journal of Psychopharmacology, vol. 30, no. 12, 2016, pp. 1181-1197.