Throughout history marijuana has been used to serve various purposes in many different cultures. The purposes have changed over time to fit in with the current lifestyles. The cultivation of the marijuana plant in the United States began as far back as the Jamestown settlers around the year 1611. At that time the main focus was on survival rather than for psychoactive purposes. Medicinal uses of marijuana eventually changed to enjoyment manipulation. Beginning in the 1960s marijuana use saw a reemergence with the rebellious youth, and the "hippie movement." This evolved into increased

Functionalist theorists would view marijuana abuse as a potentially far-reaching social problem given that every structure would be involved. Conflict theorists would consider marijuana abuse as a social problem because of the power struggle involving law enforcement and drug abusers. "This perspective focuses on the creation of rules, especially criminal law"(Herman 83). Specifically, by making the commodity of marijuana an illegal substance it creates an atmosphere of control. Thus, when members of society are forced to commit illegal acts it allows law enforcement agencies to wield power and force against them. This in turn creates conflict. Additionally a power struggle ensues between people who have and control the supply of marijuana and people who want it. This is a classic example of "the haves" versus "the have-nots," of the powerful versus the powerless. Conflict theory seems to fit best in examining the issue of marijuana abuse. Conflict theory addresses the many issues surrounding marijuana use. For example, due to the fact that the powerful control the marijuana industry there is a disparity in the criminal prosecution of certain classes, races, and socioeconomic groups. These less powerful groups are victims of discrimination. While the use of marijuana definitely inhibits an individual's life, the abuse of power surrounding marijuana, is far more harmful to society. Conflict theory addresses this on a macro level. Functionalist theory examines the issue from the standpoint that society as a whole feels the same about the problem. It assumes everyone's values are identical. Therefore, marijuana abuse as a social problem is better examined from the conflict perspective because it doesn't take peoples values into consideration. Conflict theorists would most likely solve the problem

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Approximate Word count = 1216
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)