Duthu_Joshua SCS200 Project One
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Southern New Hampshire University *
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Apr 3, 2024
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Medicinal to Narcotic to Medicinal: The Medical Marijuana Journey
Joshua M. Duthu
SNHU
SCS 200: Applied Social Sciences
L. Jupp
Medicinal to Narcotic to Medicinal: The Medical Marijuana Journey
The issue of different treatments for disease across cultures is a complex social science issue that involves examining how cultural beliefs, values, and practices influence the ways in which people seek and receive medical treatment. Diverse cultures may have different understandings of the causes of disease, as well as different approaches to treating illness. For instance, some cultures may prioritize traditional healing practices, such as herbal remedies or acupuncture, while others may rely more on modern medical interventions, such as pharmaceuticals or surgery. Herbal remedies have been around since the dawn of time, and today
some think it is still the most practical and successful way to fix physical and mental ailments. This remedy is, of course, marijuana.
Marijuana, also known as cannabis, has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries across various cultures. However, it was only in recent decades that its use was restricted or prohibited due to its psychoactive effects and potential for abuse. With the growing acceptance of medical marijuana, there has been a renewed interest in its sociological and anthropological benefits.
Sociologically, medical marijuana has the potential to address several issues related to healthcare and social justice. One of the most significant benefits is its ability to alleviate pain and symptoms associated with various medical conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and cancer. This can lead to improved quality of life and reduced healthcare
costs for patients, as well as reduced reliance on opioid medications, which have a higher risk of addiction and overdose.
Medical marijuana also has the potential to reduce social inequalities related to healthcare
access and outcomes. Historically, marginalized communities, including low-income and minority populations, have faced greater barriers to accessing healthcare and have experienced poorer health outcomes. Medical marijuana offers an alternative treatment option that is often more affordable and accessible than traditional pharmaceuticals, reducing the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.
Anthropologically, medical marijuana has played an important role in many cultures throughout history. In some cultures, marijuana has been used for spiritual and religious purposes, as well as for medicinal purposes. For example, in the Rastafari religion, marijuana is considered a sacrament and is used in religious ceremonies. In Native American cultures, marijuana has been used to treat various ailments and as part of traditional healing practices.
Medical marijuana also has the potential to promote cultural diversity and understanding. As more states and countries legalize medical marijuana, it opens up opportunities for cross-
cultural exchange and learning. For example, researchers can study the traditional uses of marijuana in different cultures and how it has been integrated into their medical systems. This can lead to a better understanding and appreciation of diverse cultural practices and beliefs.
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In conclusion, medical marijuana offers significant sociological and anthropological benefits. It has the potential to improve healthcare access and outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and promote cultural diversity and understanding. As more research is conducted on the benefits and risks of medical marijuana, it is likely that its use will become more widespread and accepted across various cultures and societies.
Evolution and Classification of Cannabis sativa (Marijuana, Hemp) in Relation to Human
Utilization https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12229-015-9157-3
Phytocannabinoids beyond the Cannabis plant - do they exist? https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.00745.x
Classification of Cannabis sativa L. in Relation to Agricultural, Biotechnological, Medical and Recreational Utilization https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-54564-6_1