Marijuana: A Reference Handbook

by David E. Newton

Marijuana: A Reference Handbook examines the production, consumption, and regulation of the Cannabis plant; the plant's commercial, recreational, medicinal, and religious applications; and the various attempts to regulate the production and consumption of marijuana in the United States and other parts of the world. Additionally, it provides a detailed history of the role of marijuana in society, an even-handed presentation of the arguments for and against its legalization or decriminalization, and a comprehensive list of print and electronic resources that can be used for further research on the topic.



As contention over the use of marijuana for recreational and medical purposes continues to be at the forefront of public policy debates and more U.S. states consider ballots to allow the production and consumption of marijuana under various conditions, this book will provide students and general readers with invaluable context to understand the underlying issues associated with recent efforts to change marijuana's legal status.

352 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2013

Reviews

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cannabis sativa is one of the oldest crops known to humans....about 6000 years ago with all civilizations using it mainly as a medicinal. One form of the plant - hemp - in the form of paper - is what Gutenberg's first bible is printed on as well as the Magna Carta and grown by George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. This book contains all the science and data you would ever want to know about Mary Jane as well as the story of "The Marihuana Tax Act of 1937" (not a typo). Surprisingly enough in the 1950's, the prison sentence for murder was 15 years minimum while the minimum for marijuana possession was 20!

[Timothy · Rating 4 out of 5]

With the rapid embrace of medicinal and growing interest in recreational use of marijuana this book is invaluable for policy makers, teachers, and students. Newton has penned other entries in this ABC-CLIO series and has a sharp writing style.

[Mills College Library]

615.7827 N562 2013