Table 1: Arguments For and Against
Reforming Canada's Drug Policy

Top Ten Reasons Why Canada's Drug Laws Should Be Reformed

Rank

Argument

Number of statements

1

Prohibition has failed

74

2

Right to privacy and individual choice

68

3

Useful in treating specified illness

67

4

Right to medication

63

5

Drug reform necessary to protect public health

62

6

Further research into medical uses

42

7

Laws no longer reflect social consensus

31

8

Poor use of public funds

30

9

Better addiction treatment possible

28

10

Long term effects not harmful enough to justify prohibition

26

Top Five Reasons Why Drugs Should Remain Illegal

Rank

Argument

Number of statements

1

Government has to maintain law and order

16

2

Prevention, addiction treatment don't require legalization

15

3

Changing laws is Parliament's job, not the courts

14

4

Long term drug use is addictive, harmful

14

5

Legalization would increase use

13

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