Economist argues against recriminalizing marijuana in new column
5 reported
In a recent Free Press column, economist Tyler Cowen argues against recriminalizing marijuana, suggesting that paternalism is less workable than in the past. Cowen writes that the present and future require high levels of self-discipline, and he prefers coping with that world over a full nanny state backed by modern surveillance. He states that concentrating more power in political authorities does not solve the basic problem, as unscrupulous political leaders can manipulate weak individuals just as marijuana or sports gambling can. Cowen suggests that in the longer term, medications such as GLP-1 drugs or self-surveillance with self-imposed penalties could help curb addictive behavior. He concludes that voluntary choice is overwhelming some people with bad outcomes, but he recommends accepting some steps backward and hoping for cultural and technological adjustments.
What’s reported
Tyler Cowen wrote a column for the Free Press on the topic of recriminalizing marijuana.
Cowen argues that paternalism is less workable than in times past.
He states that the government lacks credibility, control over information, and control over lives to pull off paternalism.
Cowen suggests GLP-1 drugs and self-surveillance as potential long-term solutions for addictive behavior.
He acknowledges that voluntary choice is overwhelming some people with bad outcomes.
Key figures
Tyler Cowen, economist and columnist for the Free Press
Daniel Akst, journalist and author of “Temptation: Finding Self-Control in an Age of Excess” (2011)
Sources: marginalrevolution.com
