Just like ending prohibition solved some problems and started others. But the net effect is to allow freedom of choice and try to deter the problems.

Pot gets people into other drugs. Not because it is some hook, but because it introduces people to the black market, where other drugs are available. If Pot was decriminalized, then it would significantly hurt the drug dealers. Not only the pot dealers, but keep people from straying into coke and Extasy, etc. It would generate large tax revenue, especially if itwas taxed highly to keep prices anywhere close to current levels.

Problems would be that there would be an increase in usage, but it can't be said how much. And that would be volentary demand, not being forced on people. There would also be maybe an increase in people stoned and working or driving. But in reality, I would rather be on the road with someone stoned, than drunk.

So looking at the cast/benefit ratio, it might work out to legalize and regulate endign up better. Eliminating the illegal activities, money for criminal activities and subsequent violence in the drug trade, and reducing the number of people moving on to harder drugs may outweigh the costs. There is also the whole victim less crime issue. And the medical effects are less than cigarettes or alcohol.