Erich Boschert - Research Paper Checkpoint #2

In this paper, in the arguments section, I need to "discuss at least 1 piece of supporting evidence." Use the following blurbs from another essay I wrote as evidence for these arguments:
Until the 1960s, marijuana remained relatively obscure until its surge in popularity
among youths, embedding itself into mainstream culture. Surveys like the NSDUH and
Monitoring the Future have tracked its consumption trends since the 1970s, revealing peaks in
the late 1970s and late 1990s, followed by declines and resurgences. The rise since 2007 lacks a
single explanation, with hypotheses varying from price drops to shifting public views on its risks
(The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids, 2017).
Legal changes have significantly influenced attitudes. By 2017, nearly all Americans
resided in states with some form of marijuana legalization, reflecting and reinforcing societal
acceptance and accessibility (America’s Marijuana Evolution, 2017).
Studies highlight the positive correlation between Medical Marijuana Laws (MML) and
increased usage across demographics, while Recreational Marijuana Laws (RML) show no
significant association. This suggests that while medical legalization normalizes use, recreational
legalization might not be the primary driver of consumption growth (Marijuana legalization and
historical trends, 2016).


Research Question:
How would the legalization of all currently illegal drugs impact crime and homelessness rates across the U.S.?

I. Introduction
A. Key Background Information
1. Overview of the U.S. drug problem, including opioid addiction
2. Brief history and outcomes of the War on Drugs, particularly its impact on crime rates and incarcerations
3. Example of Portugal’s drug decriminalization and its outcomes

B. Significance or Importance
1. The growing debate on drug policy and criminal justice reform in the U.S.
2. Potential economic implications, including tax revenue and public health cost
3. Effects on marginalized communities and the broader societal impact

C. Thesis Statement
Thesis Statement: Legalizing all currently illegal drugs could potentially reduce crime rates and homelessness in the U.S., although it may also bring challenges including increased drug abuse and public health burdens.

II. Arguments
A. Reason #1: Reduction in Crime Rates
1. Evidence: Case studies from countries that have decriminalized or legalized drugs, e.g., Portugal, showing decreased incarceration rates related to drug offenses
2. Supporting Point: Redirecting resources from policing and incarceration to rehabilitation and mental health services

B. Reason #2: Economic Benefits
1. Evidence: Potential tax revenues from legalized drug sales based on currently legal substances like alcohol and marijuana
2. Supporting Point: Savings from reduced law enforcement and incarceration costs

C. Reason #3: Public Health Improvements
1. Evidence: Availability of safer, regulated substances can reduce overdose rates and drug-related health issues
2. Supporting Point: Improved access to addiction treatment and harm reduction programs

III. Counter-Arguments
A. Objection #1: Increased Drug Use and Abuse
1. Response: Reviewing the data from decriminalized markets to show trends, highlighting education and harm reduction strategies

B. Objection #2: Burden on Healthcare System
1. Response: Examining how redirected funds from law enforcement can bolster healthcare services, including treatment programs for addiction

C. Objection #3: Persistence of Black Market
1. Response: Discussion on pricing strategies and regulation to keep legal market attractive; enforcement focus on illegal trafficking

IV. Conclusion
A. Main Points to Emphasize or Summarize
1. Recap of potential benefits: reduced crime rates, economic gains, and public health improvements
2. Acknowledgment of potential risks and the importance of comprehensive strategies to address them
3. Reiteration of thesis: the overall positive impact of drug legalization on crime and homelessness with managed risks

V. Challenge/Concern Section
One challenge I have about my outline is ensuring that I provide a balanced view of both the potential benefits and the risks of drug legalization. I want to avoid being overly optimistic or overly pessimistic, and I’m concerned about finding enough credible sources to support all points of the argument and counter-arguments, particularly newer data from countries that have implemented similar policies. I am generally happy with my thesis statement as it provides a clear stance while acknowledging challenges but I would appreciate feedback on whether it needs to be more specific or if it flows well with the arguments laid out.