The Legalization of Drugs in North America

Drugs - the issue is wholly controversial, and the debate not entirely without merit. It is hard to see exactly what the answer should be, without looking at all the facts; even then, many "experts" fluctuate between a "Yes" and a "No" answer. Granted, there are many sides to the problem; however, with the decriminalization of marijuana seemingly within reach, the debate for whether all illicit drugs should be decriminalized or even legalized has gotten more intense. There are many facets, but there can be only one answer; there is a need for either harsher penalties or the decriminalization or even legalization of illicit drugs. Legalization, however, is the only practical way to bring any positive results.
Politicians argue, "Illegal drugs and drug-related crime and violence kill 20,000 Americans a year, at a cost of $67 billion." …