Good times. 420 at UC Santa Cruz, in 2007. Photo: CC/josh
I think the authorities, through their lack of enforcement of whatever marijuana laws are left on the books, are pushing mass behavior toward increased cannabis use.
From the viewpoints of behavior modification and population control, pot’s got a lot going for it: The drug can produce passivity and suggestibility, and reduce aggression, and cause hormonal changes that impact reproductive health.
As for UCSC’s letter to mom and dad, I say, “Good luck with all that…”
According to a recently-sent e-mail from Felicia McGinty, vice-chancellor of student affairs, delivered to inboxes of UC Santa Cruz freshman parents, “I encourage you to talk with your student about his or her plans for 4/20. Ask direct questions about the choices they make and express your expectations regarding marijuana, alcohol or other drug use. Although students may not initiate discussion on this topic, your opinions and expectations can influence their behavior.”
As Dave Chappelle in Half-Baked says:
“… and of course, the dreaded low sperm count.”
Though, I have to say, pot is a lot less destructive than many of the legal drugs being dished out like candy nowadays.