Cannabis, Culture, and Pragmatic Criminology

Abstract

Abstract In this chapter, we argue cannabis reform requires renegotiating cannabis culture in ways that confront stigma, further responsible consumption, and ensure legal cannabis can be sustained. This means revisiting concepts introduced in previous chapters, such as tolerance, aversion, harm reduction, and benefit maximization. Next, we apply work on multi-level stigma to cannabis laws, policies, and practices and consider how expanding social control impacts criminology. Finally, we introduce pragmatism to connect participatory approaches to policymaking. We conclude by considering the similarities and differences between Jurgen Habermas and Richard Rorty on deliberative democracy and addressing the prescient warnings of Stanley Cohen. Finally, we argue the future of cannabis research must privilege the views of people who use it.