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Views of Marijuana Around the World

A person’s views are normally shaped by the people around them. You may believe some things because your parents do. Other opinions may be shaped by your teachers, friends, or what you see on television or on a news website. If you live in the United States, Canada, India, or another country, it’s easy to only think about an issue based on your own country’s views. But in order to better understand where marijuana stands today, it’s important to look around the world. Having more global insight not only helps you better understand the issues at hand, but also helps you predict what may happen in your own country down the road and learn about different points of view. India In India, the use of marijuana is technically illegal. Some provinces in India tolerate it much like some states do the same in the United States. Approximately 80 percent of people in India practice the religion of Hinduism. This fact makes it difficult for the country to completely reject marijuana. Marijuana usage is deeply rooted in some Hindu practices. It’s used to both enhance spiritual experiences and as a treatment for many conditions. Ancient texts dating back to 2000 B.C. even refer to cannabis as one of five sacred plants said to have “magical properties.”The government regu- lates marijuana and permits its sale in various forms in some temples. But outside of religious practice, the use of marijuana is illegal. Let’s take a look.

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