cannabisnews.com: The Latest Marijuana Propaganda Campaign
The Latest Marijuana Propaganda Campaign
Posted by CN Staff on April 22, 2008 at 04:56:32 PT
By Brian Tschiegg, Staff Writer
Source: Retriever
USA -- Flipping through the channels, a man in a pith helmet and a white mustache flashes onto the screen, asking you to join him in his hunt for the “mature stoner.” It is yet another anti-drug commercial in the government-sponsored ad campaign “Above the Influence.” Filled with propaganda and falsified information, the series of four commercials chronicles the adventures of “Dr. Puck” and his assistant, Baldric. They watch “stoners” in their natural habitat: relaxing, going to school, and even driving. This series of ads perpetuates many of the myths associated with marijuana use.
The first commercial opens with a monologue from the doctor while standing on a suburban street. The good doctor prepares us to hunt the “remarkably unmotivated” stoners who are cloistered in a smoke filled basement. Strewn about the pair of stoners are food wrappers and empty bottles, and the two are mesmerized by the television. Apparently marijuana makes you not notice two complete strangers lurking behind the potted plants in your house.According to Above the Influence, marijuana makes people so oblivious to their surroundings that Baldric is able to place a tracking collar on one of the stoners without being noticed. After the collar is installed, the two researchers retire to their surveillance van where you find out that marijuana makes you sit on a couch for three days without moving to, you know, go to the bathroom, shower, see family members, etc.Dr. Puck then decides to observe the female stoner in a social situation. A boy walks up to the female stoner and initiates a little flirting, but the female stoner can’t remember his name or the flow of conversation. She is constantly embarrassed as the simple social interaction is bungled, and then her questionable hygiene is revealed when the boy notices a chunk of brownie in her hair. The doctor feels that marijuana-users lack the motivation to keep chunks of random food out of their hair.In the next commercial, the Doctor and Baldric have managed to re-create the stoners’ natural habitat in a lab environment. The brave assistant, clad in cover-alls and a gas mask, enters the smoke-filled chamber and puts the stoners through a series of tests. Baldric proceeds to test the stoner’s reflexes by throwing different objects at the young man and he makes no attempt to catch any of them. The doctor decides to move onto trials to test the young girl’s concentration. Baldric engages in a game of blackjack with the young girl who tells him to “go fish.” Obviously, marijuana-users cannot handle the simplest of tasks, but can they drive a car? That’s what the doctor tries to prove, and apparently the answer is no. The stoner drives like someone 20 beers deep, crashing into different obstacles and leaving the obstacle course in ruins.This newest batch of propaganda ads is reverting back to the lies of the 1930s. Although it cites many sources to bolster its points, most of the sources are from the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) a government funded research institute. NIDA controls the growth and distribution of all medical-grade marijuana in the United States, and they have been known to be very stingy, not allowing marijuana to be given to studies that contradict their findings. NIDA’s stated mission is to “lead the Nation in bringing the power of science to bear on drug abuse and addiction.” This mission would obviously tend to favor the negative aspects of marijuana rather than any potential benefits.Dr. Puck and his assistant perpetuate the many myths and assumptions that surround marijuana users. Bad hygiene, slurred speech, shortened memory span, and decreased awareness of surroundings are all effects taken straight out of the NIDA pamphlet, even though there has never been solid proof that marijuana negatively affects the brain. These campaigns are often weak and ineffective, providing nothing more than TV fodder for stoned teenagers. In 2005, a survey company named Westat was hired to do a comprehensive study on the effectiveness of the “Above the Influence” campaign. The study concluded that the ads had a negative affect because “greater exposure to the ad campaign was associated with weaker anti-drug norms and increases in perception that others use marijuana.”Government funded ad campaigns take about a half a billion dollars of the tax payers’ money each year. The government is wasting its time and money to stop people from using the most popular and widely used recreational drug. Marijuana use has not declined over time. In fact, studies have shown that is the drug with the fastest growing user base. Obviously, the government’s tactics are not working, and it is time that our legislators took a new stance on marijuana.Source: Retriever, The (UMBC, MD Edu)Author: Brian Tschiegg, Staff WriterPublished: Tuesday April 22, 2008 - Volume 42, Issue 26Copyright: The Retriever WeeklyContact: editorinchief trw.umbc.eduWebsite: http://www.retrieverweekly.com/CannabisNews -- Cannabis Archiveshttp://cannabisnews.com/news/list/cannabis.shtml
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Comment #108 posted by FoM on April 26, 2008 at 09:10:39 PT
Had Enough
What a amazing video. He died very young at 38. I don't know who he was but it is beautiful. Thank you.
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Comment #107 posted by Hope on April 26, 2008 at 08:45:40 PT
Had Enough
Thank you for the IZ video. My video access is terrible... but I heard and saw enough to see the beauty and sweetness.So much bitterness and anger and hatred and hardness in the world. A few drops of sweet here and there, like Iz's sweet voice singing a sweet song, sweeten the whole mess considerably.One teenage granddaughter and I have a special love for "Somewhere Over the Rainbow". I shared the video with her. She's going to love it.Our old friend, Louis Armstrong, singing "It's a wonderful world"... could almost convince me, maybe, nearly, a little... sometimes. I wanted to believe him.... but I did love the song and the way he sang it.
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Comment #106 posted by Had Enough on April 26, 2008 at 07:57:36 PT
Did it again
Well WellHere HearProof reading school, Hhmm, where do I sign up…:-)I thought for sure I had it right…that is until I posted it.
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Comment #105 posted by Had Enough on April 26, 2008 at 07:41:42 PT
Well…
Well…The creek didn’t rise (here anyway), so I guess God is willing…To let us see and here this…This was sent to me by a dear friend, he wanted to share this… And so do I…This is what he wrote in the email he sent…“This was sent to me .The message has to do with a club I am in, but this link is awesome think it my be one of the best messages I have ever seen. I just wanted to share this with you .I Z has a way of putting things into a way to see life. I hope you like this as well as I do.....”http://www.youtube.com:80/watch?v=PL-uL2M3xvM
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Comment #104 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 20:00:04 PT
One More Comment
I'll take your advice about Prilosec and if I decide I want to swing from the chandelier that I don't have I will know I have really become mental! LOL! I'm calling it a day early tonight. I'll talk with you tomorrow if God is willin and the creek don't rise.
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Comment #103 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 19:43:32 PT
Hope
Isn't that drug Ambien? It would be hard to diet if a person took Ambien. One of the Kennedys got in his car to go vote in the middle of the night and he hit something. Sleep driving is a scary side effect. I wouldn't ever use that drug. They worried years ago about people on LSD doing stupid things but Ambien can make a person do stupid things too.
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Comment #102 posted by Hope on April 25, 2008 at 19:38:04 PT
What about that medicine that
makes you get up and eat or drive around in your sleep? That's awful. That apparently really happens to people sometimes when they take those medications. That's worse than suddenly wanting to gamble.
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Comment #101 posted by Hope on April 25, 2008 at 19:36:24 PT
Probably
it's sometime like suddenly you want to climb up on the roof suddenly, or suddenly feel extra large or extra small, for no reason, or go to Madagascar... or something you wouldn't usually think to do... so it's probably the medicine.
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Comment #100 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 19:33:31 PT
Hope
She didn't mention anything about it. I don't know if they checked for it. The pain was unbearable and disabling. I might get to enjoy this summer. She said Type A personalities suffer with this more then others.
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Comment #99 posted by Hope on April 25, 2008 at 19:32:58 PT
being mental for me is a way of life
Lol!I know. Me, too.But keep an eye out for weird stuff... just in case. I believe in being careful.It makes you mental to have bad pain, too... but you have to do something sometimes.
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Comment #98 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 19:29:59 PT
Hope
It can make you mental? I don't think I'd recognize anything since being mental for me is a way of life. At least these days. LOL!
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Comment #97 posted by Hope on April 25, 2008 at 19:28:18 PT
Don't read about H. Pylori
I mean it. You're no better off knowing about it. Just get well.It's kind of like politics... sometimes the less you know, the better off you are.Besides... all ulcers aren't caused by H. Pylori. So don't worry.
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Comment #96 posted by Hope on April 25, 2008 at 19:24:50 PT
I might just get better.
I know that feeling... here's hoping you have one of those "born again" experiences coming. It's called "Getting well"... when you thought you might never, and it sure is wonderful.I used to practically eat those things... Prilosec, Nexium stuff actually... when I had the ulcer pain really bad... under doctor's direction... but I didn't want to tell you that. They did help amazingly... over time... a pretty long time.Be careful with them even... I think I read somewhere in the side effects that they can make you mental somehow, sometimes as a bad reaction... just try not to let that happen. I took so much calcium once... during the healing bone debacle... that I got a weird depression... and looked it up and heavy doses of calcium can sure do that... so as I know you will... be careful... but be glad! All those tests can rule out pancreas and gall bladder trouble... that's even worse than ulcers... so I'm sure glad it's neither of those.It can also show in blood tests that you have antibodies to H. Pylori in your blood.I mean it... don't read about H. Pylori. You'll wish you hadn't.
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Comment #95 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 19:22:05 PT
Hope
Diet pills made me feel like I had all the answers to everything.
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Comment #94 posted by Hope on April 25, 2008 at 19:15:49 PT
I took a diet pill once years ago...
That made everyone else seem stupid... and irritating... especially my husband.It was like instant PMS!I realized it though... and stopped taking it.He was irritating, really sometimes... but it escalated suddenly after that pill... so I was able to surmise that it was some sort of chemical reaction... but whoooo... Was he suddenly exceedingly stupid and irritating for a while there!!!
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Comment #93 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 19:14:20 PT
Hope
I must admit I never started wearing a big black pointy hat! LOL!
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Comment #92 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 19:13:18 PT
Hope
The blood test showed no bleeding or dehydration which is good. I was able to do some cleaning today and I still am feeling fine. I might just get better. I was beginning to wonder. I'm still taking two Prilosec. I'll stay on 2 for a week or so and drop back to one. She said to take it anytime I feel I need it. Sometimes just having a Doctor ok what you are doing makes us feel better too.
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Comment #91 posted by Hope on April 25, 2008 at 19:10:41 PT
Becoming witches...
I've heard a drug advertised, I forget what it's for...allergies maybe... that causes "gambling"... so anything's possible, I guess.:0)
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Comment #90 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 19:08:54 PT
Hope
I really do have a strange reaction to any type of barbituate. When I had surgery they gave me a seconal to sleep. I would doze off and in less then an hour I was wide awake and wired. My sister can't take any barbituates either. I did take it today before I ate dinner and I didn't have any stomach spasms. I guess since I am so aware of the drug I should be ok if I use it only when it is absolutely necessary. I'm not young and foolish anymore. LOL!PS: And I hate being a witch!
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Comment #89 posted by Hope on April 25, 2008 at 19:08:33 PT
Belladonna
A neurologist prescribed it to me, years and years ago when I first started having migraines... but I don't remember ever refilling it or taking it again or wanting to. It sounds spooky though. :0) Bella Donna. Bella Lugosi!It's been a medicinal herb, I think, for eons. I think it's supposed to help the gut as well as help relieve pain. Although I'm pretty sure prescription forms of it are somehow a very refined chemical form of it.I'm just guessing.I'm glad it wasn't your pancreas or gallstones... that's even worse than a regular... not hemorrhaging, ulcer.
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Comment #88 posted by Hope on April 25, 2008 at 18:46:18 PT
I become a witch when I take Phenobarbital
Good grief! Don't take it then. I couldn't help but laugh when you said that, though.Lol! I thought, "I don't think she means it makes her practice Wicca!"
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Comment #87 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 15:51:56 PT
rchandar
The best is yet to come when a person is 38.
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Comment #86 posted by rchandar on April 25, 2008 at 15:44:47 PT:
FoM
no its a couple more days. i don't think of 38 as 'young' though--i'm looking at middle age and stuff like that
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Comment #85 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 14:25:40 PT
rchandar
Is today your Birthday? If so Happy Birthday. You're such a youngin! LOL!
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Comment #84 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 14:23:49 PT
rchandar
Enjoy my friend!
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Comment #83 posted by rchandar on April 25, 2008 at 14:14:24 PT:
PS--FoM
...and now, I'm 38. Like I said, I'm having a drink on you now.
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Comment #82 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 14:12:58 PT
rchandar
Cannabis is a good herb. It doesn't addict people or hurt people unless they are caught where it has stiff penalties. Cannabis can help a person kick hard drugs I believe.
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Comment #81 posted by rchandar on April 25, 2008 at 14:07:27 PT:
FoM
FoM, it was when Tony and I were 21 years old. We were college roommates. Tony went into the college's Drug and Alcohol Abuse Department and walked off with a "factsheet" about what damage drugs do to people.So, we found out that MJ "may" cause "psychological addiction" but not "physical addiction." Cocaine, heroin, barbituates, metaamphetamine, and LSD were all said "to cause physical dependence."And so we made our decision as to what was "acceptable."LoL!--rchandar
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Comment #80 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 14:04:05 PT
rchandar
I don't feel guilty really. I'm just glad I made it thru those terrible times.
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Comment #79 posted by rchandar on April 25, 2008 at 14:00:56 PT:
FoM
No, FoM. No. The point of all this is that your brain still functions, you're still productive, and all this guilty confession s#$t is a BUNCH OF GARBAGE. You know that. I know that. Today, I'm going to have a drink on you!rchandar
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Comment #78 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 12:45:03 PT
BGreen
I removed my one post. I don't know who reads this site and I thought it was best.
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Comment #77 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 12:04:08 PT
BGreen
I only drank for a couple of years of my life but when I did I drank 24 beers a day and still functioned. I'm 5'2" and 110 pounds. Stick could drink one or two and he was done. I have consumed enough drugs at one time in my life that would have dropped an elephant. My mom drank hard liquor non stop thru the whole time she was carrying me. Maybe it made me like I am. That's why I'm weird. LOL!
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Comment #75 posted by BGreen on April 25, 2008 at 11:46:39 PT
I'm familiar with Donnatal
There is only about 20 mg or so of phenobarbital in a dose of Donnatal. It's such a small dose that it's not even a scheduled drug, also because the three belladonna alkaloids will cause some pretty bad side effects if you take too much of them.I've taken Donnatal and so has my mom. I guarantee you won't even feel such a small amount.Why don't you call your pharmacist and speak with her about your concerns?The Reverend Bud Green
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Comment #74 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 11:45:47 PT
BGreen
This is what was in Fioricet. ButalbitalYou're right that is not phenobarbital. I can't take Seconal without turning into a speeding maniac. It puts some people to sleep but I get really wired on barbituates.
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Comment #73 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 11:32:04 PT
BGreen
This is what the drug is. I become a witch when I take Phenobarbital. Our whole family turns into monsters. Just ask my husband. It makes me speed but groggy at the same time. I was dependent on Fioricet. http://www.drugs.com/mtm/donnatal.htmlhttp://www.drugs.com/fioricet.html
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Comment #72 posted by BGreen on April 25, 2008 at 11:22:24 PT
Belladonna isn't Phenobarbital
Belladonna is an alkaloid from a plant. Phenobarbital is a chemical manufactured in a lab.There may be a small amount of phenobarbital in the tablets prescribed to you, but the amount is so small you have nothing to worry about.The Reverend Bud Green
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Comment #71 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 10:31:24 PT
Hope
I just checked and Belladonna is Phenobarbital. I was dependent of Phenobarbital and codeine and I will not take this drug unless the pain gets really bad. I don't need that kind of trouble. I will never go thru drug withdrawal again. Once is enough.
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Comment #70 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 10:22:25 PT
Hope
She said using Prilosec and doubling the dose when the pain came back was good judgment. Changing my eating habits helped too. My EKG was normal and that was a relief since I was having such chest pain. My pancreas and spleen are where my pain is but with my familiy history of ulcers that is what it seemed like she said. I take two pepcid pills at bedtime and this other drug whenever I have stomach pain. It's called Belladonna. That's the one that makes me woozy. I haven't taken any today since I don't have any pain right now.
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Comment #69 posted by Hope on April 25, 2008 at 09:58:52 PT
FoM
So they think it's an ulcer?I understand them being surprised at you're not having nausea. Ack. I was hounded by nausea... as well as pain.But, as we well know... people are different and they react to certain things differently because of their particular body and interior plumbing.I've known people who took the antibiotics and all that they use for ulcers and it was easy for them to take and they were cured and as good as new at the end of the antibiotic regimen... and without ever getting scoped.I'm praying it will be easy for you and will cure you.By the way, I'm one of those people who is nauseated easily. Some movies send me running for the door or a bathroom even if I'm not being hurt by an active ulcer. It's a freak show if an ulcer is involved. Remember the pie eating contest in Stand By Me?Aaaaarggh!!!Getting too upset or worried hits me right in the stomach or head... ala migraine.
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Comment #68 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 09:52:15 PT
museman
That's a very good idea. I don't think there are any near here. I really live way out in the country far away from any large cities where I would have a choice. They did blood tests and I seem to have everything going fine except my red cell count and that is because I smoke she said. Interesting she listened to my lungs and they are clear. She was surprised by that too. I told her I won't get lung cancer because we don't have any cancer in our family and she looked at me and said you are probably right. Cancer does run in families and the cancer can vary but it often happens that way. I was able to get the scripts for $4.00 and we are submitting our 07 tax return and they might pick up most of the bill. They were very kind. I said I will have the tests as long as I can afford them and then they brought me in a form to fill out. I haven't been pain free in a couple of months and today I am pain free. The medicine makes me groggy but I can live with being a little oopsey! LOL!
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Comment #67 posted by museman on April 25, 2008 at 09:29:07 PT
#s 12,16, -17- ,
I concur, and agree with all those statements, and all the rest in this thread actually.Bgreens suggestion is a great one that should be thought about by everyone, even if FoM doesn't need it right now.FoM, my opinion; You did the right thing going to a medical facility to get diagnosed. However, I would be looking elsewhere for treatment. Find a healer, if possible. They are rare, stifled by the establishment, discredited and usually don't work out of an office. If you pray about it however, I have little doubt one will come your way. I'm not talking about so-called 'faith -healers' though some of them may be for real, in fact the chances of one of them being for real is much greater than the chance of finding a healer in the vipers nest of the AMA, no I'm talking about just plain healers. They help you access your own healing power in wholesome -drugless- (not necessarily herbless)ways.Some possible practitioners may practice techniques like Reike, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Accupuncture and accupressure. All three of these forms and many offshoots are techniques to focus the body and mind on healing energy.I acknowlege that sometimes doctors have their uses, but those times are usually involving surgery -which they like to do for the littlest of things- it's a profitable action- and should only be considcered once all other options like healing have been exhausted.Here's the distinct difference between a healer and a charlatan (regardless of 'skill or training'): A healers priority concern is their patients physical, emotional, and mental health, not the health of their wallet. You show me a doctor that treats without payment, I show you a healer. That concept also applies to one who accepts trade in labor or goods as payment."No credit, no treatment" - the new 'Hippocratic Oath'Glad you are feeling better Fom.
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Comment #66 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 07:53:49 PT
Had Enough
I understand what you are saying. I accidentally picked up my husband's diet coke when I was drinking diet 7-up and it tasted terrible. I am no longer drinking any sodas. I am drinking about 8 or more glasses of water a day now. Making a good meal takes time but it's worthwhile time. I feel sorry for those people younger then me that have been raised on processed foods. Eating out was a luxury not a daily occurrence. Have a great day at work.
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Comment #65 posted by Had Enough on April 25, 2008 at 07:39:47 PT
FoM
I was anxiously waiting for you to post and fill us in.Things could be a lot worse, but still…Try to be careful.The last few years I’ve slowly cut back on refined sugars, and flour. Avoiding hydrogenated oils, processed foods, and soda pop. I still end up with some junk food though, It’s hard to completely eliminate it, if I can avoid it, I will.As a result of doing that, when I do end up eating the processed junk food, the taste is not what it used to be, one example is bread. I’ve been eating Whole Wheat grain. Now when I eat junk bread it tastes awful. Same with pasta too. The local grocery store has been stocking it and we’ve been using it. Bride experimented and found a good way to prepare it, tastes better than the junk pasta. I had a soda about a month ago; I couldn’t even finish it because it tasted terrible. That was Coca-Cola, I loved it for years, and that and 7 up were the only ones I would drink, now for some reason I can’t stand to swallow them. When I do eat hot dogs I get this feeling of something inside of me that shouldn’t be there, like hot dogs. :).Another side effect that I got was… I dropped about 20 lbs… Don’t know for sure because I rarely get on a scale to see. All my clothes are fitting rather loose and baggy; my belt is on the smallest hole and still fits a little loose. Many people comment to me that I have lost weight and ask if I’m on a diet, or what kind am I on. I tell them no diet, I just cut back on the poison processed foods and this weight loss is a spin off.Now I’m not completely junk food free, but have cut a lot of it out…feeling better too. Now if I could only get rid of that stress baggage…I don’t want to preach here, this is just something that I’ve experienced, and I thought I would share the info.And I’m glad you are feeling better…Off to the grind to pay for the grid... will check back later, have a good day.
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Comment #64 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 06:44:49 PT
BGreen
I feel fine this morning for the first time in a while. The stress for me will lift when Obama gets the nomination. The 1968 DNC will seem like it was just fun day if they destroy Senator Obama I believe. I will not vote for Hillary. I would return to my non caring days for sanity's sake. I don't like McCain but I dislike Hillary big time.
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Comment #63 posted by BGreen on April 25, 2008 at 06:32:41 PT
That's great news, FoM!
It could have been a lot worse news.I know what you mean about stress and pain. I'm so stressed out by this one particular woman who is on all of the daily newscasts telling a different story each time her mouth opens up. We've just gone through eight years of an administration who does the exact same thing, so my head just about explodes every time I see or hear this lying wife of another lying cheat.Have a great pain-free day!The Reverend Bud Green
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Comment #62 posted by FoM on April 25, 2008 at 06:03:38 PT
BGreen
They did blood work and an EKG and gave me more drugs to treat the ulcer. The one drug makes me woozy which I don't like but it helped stop the stabbing heart pain. My blood pressure is high but she didn't give me any medicine to bring it down. Tension and pain she said will raise blood pressure so hopefully it will come down if I avoid stress and the pain gets under control. She asked me questions and when she asked me about nausea I told her I haven't had any nausea and that surprised her. She wants me to find a doctor and start going regularly for follow up so we will look for one locally. Thanks for caring.
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Comment #61 posted by BGreen on April 25, 2008 at 00:18:46 PT
I hope it went well with the doctor, FoM
You've been in my thoughts and prayers.The Reverend Bud Green
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Comment #60 posted by FoM on April 24, 2008 at 08:46:30 PT
JustGetnBy
Thank you for your concern. We are leaving in a few minutes to go to a clinic about 30 miles from here. Hopefully they will figure out what is wrong with me.
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Comment #59 posted by JustGetnBy on April 24, 2008 at 07:26:22 PT
Goin to the Doctor FOM #32
FOM At the risk of sticking my nose where it doesn't belong I gotta join with Hope and the Rev. Money is only a thing,you
are more important than things.Please don't continue suffering because of money. Rev I'm in on your suggestion ( #32 )drop me an e-mail.
dlbrazell hotmail.com Peace
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Comment #58 posted by FoM on April 24, 2008 at 06:07:05 PT
afterburner
I quit diet 7-up about a week ago. Hopefully it will help. Thank you.
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Comment #57 posted by afterburner on April 23, 2008 at 23:21:12 PT
Yes, FoM
I concur with ekim. I gave up Aspartame after years of drinking diet soda and eating sugar-free food. It takes some time to purify the digestive system and brain, but it is worth the effort.
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Comment #56 posted by afterburner on April 23, 2008 at 23:15:09 PT
Hope #16 I'm offended.
"I'm very offended."Me, too! I want my tax money back.It seems that the ramped-up 'War on Drugs' under Reagan in the 1980s was a crisis management technique to foster the neo-con version of capitalism, 'disaster capitalism' as Naomi Klein calls it (The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism). 'Drug users' became the enemy within, used to provoke a crisis, which could then be used to perform radical Friedman-inspired economic and social changes without waiting for the slow democratic process. Earlier in the 1980s, Margaret Thatcher had learned this lesson after the Falklands War with Argentina when her unpopularity was evaporated by a resurgence of patriotism and pride caused by the perception of her as a strong leader in winning the war. Thatcher had become friends with Pinochet, Chile’s ruthless dictator. Riding a wave of new-found popularity, Thatcher implemented radical Friedman-inspired economic changes, neo-con free-market solutions, using the Falklands War as her crisis. (for more details, read The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism)In the 1970s, military dictators in 'The Southern Cone' nations of South America had used violent repression, including torture and ’disappearances,’ of socialist performers, clergy, union leaders and teachers (who represented the majority social views of the general public) to create a crisis. This crisis had allowed the ruling governments of Chile, Uruguay, Brazil and Argentina in the 1970s to implement unpopular neo-liberal (the South American term for neo-conservative) free-market economic reforms, championed by the Chicago Boys, students of Milton Friedman. Even after the resulting human rights violations had been brought to light, the economic changes they supported lingered on. (for more details, read The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism)With the 'fall of communism,' Reagan needed a new scapegoat, and my friends, you are it.
Notice how soon after 9/11 attacks, the US Federal Government tried to link the 'Drug War' with the War on Terrorism, saying that 'drug users' were supporting terrorism. This deceit allowed the US Federal Government to morph the enemy from 'drug users' to terrorists. In retrospect this federal action allows the 'crisis' to continue, even as it becomes increasingly obvious that public belief in the evilness of 'drug users' is sinking as fast as George W. Bush's approval rating.So, the sudden increase in pro-cannabis activism and state and federal legislation translates into a behind the scenes moving of the target from 'drug user' to terrorist. The increasingly strident and fantastic exaggerations of the OiNkDCP demonstrate an agency in its death throws, throwing in the towel in obvious defeat by We The People.So, from communists/socialists to 'drug users' to terrorists, the name of the 'enemy of the state' changes, but the attack on human rights continues and the dismantling of government oversight continues with increasingly global 'free trade' and 'free markets' controlled by multinational corporations.So, FoM's valuable insight into the paradox of communist China as US capitalism's banker and manufacturer is unmasked as yesterday's battle.
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Comment #55 posted by FoM on April 23, 2008 at 20:48:35 PT
ekim
Thank you. I'll work hard to get better.
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Comment #54 posted by ekim on April 23, 2008 at 20:41:31 PT
FoM -- some info -- get well
wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspartame_controversywww.holisticmed.com/aspartame/
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Comment #53 posted by John Tyler on April 23, 2008 at 18:02:00 PT
state propaganda
The organs of state propaganda have tried everything else, now they are going to try cruel ridicule, depicting cannabis users as some subhuman species not worthy of respect, dignity or legal rights. It will be colossal waste of money and another failure, because everybody is or was, or knows or is related to a cannabis user at sometime in their life and they were OK and they will think why is the gov. wasting any money on this stupidity trying to say something that is clearly a lie. If the government can so easily lie to me, an intelligent taxpaying citizen about this, then what else are they lying to me about? Moral, nobody believes a liar even if they tell the truth sometimes. In political terms credibility is a fragile commodity when it gets damaged it is difficult to get it repaired.
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Comment #52 posted by FoM on April 23, 2008 at 11:35:37 PT
Hope
I agree. We and our society should find common ground and show mercy. A country that does good things for their people will be blessed. It isn't an option in my mind but a command.
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Comment #51 posted by Hope on April 23, 2008 at 11:28:22 PT
Pain
It's awful. It sucks. It devours.It's even worse... immoral...unethical... cruel, to purposely inflict pain on another being.
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Comment #50 posted by FoM on April 23, 2008 at 10:57:26 PT
BGreen
No Pain! No Pain! No Pain! Now that is something everyone will agree with! LOL!
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Comment #49 posted by FoM on April 23, 2008 at 10:56:12 PT
Hope
That's true. I do want to know what is wrong with me. Finding this new walk in clinic is a God Send. They can do a lot right at the clinic I was told.
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Comment #48 posted by BGreen on April 23, 2008 at 10:54:40 PT
I'm happy and relieved, FoM
My motto has always been "No pain, no pain." LOLThe Reverend Bud Green
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Comment #47 posted by Hope on April 23, 2008 at 10:34:45 PT
Also... a great thing could happen...
It might not be so bad as we fear it might and they might be able to to fix you up... relatively easily.Sometimes the news is a refreshing relief that it's not as bad as it seems like it might be.
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Comment #46 posted by FoM on April 23, 2008 at 10:29:37 PT
Hope
It has been a long time and my body is tired. I run out of energy really quickly these days. I'm tired already today and I am only starting to get my work done. I am not having anything but nagging dull pain today but it is a reminder that it could kick up again at anytime. Stick had to go away for a truck part but I'll tell him when he gets home that I give up and will trust a doctor. He doesn't trust them either so he understands.
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Comment #45 posted by Hope on April 23, 2008 at 10:19:00 PT
Reaching the point where you have to go...
Sometimes you do. You've had this pain for a long time now.
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Comment #44 posted by Hope on April 23, 2008 at 10:12:00 PT
Stoners in the Mist
They robbed us first... by overtaxing us and then frivolously wasted/spent huge amounts of our money to produce a film that shows humans being treated like animals and crude and cruel mockery through the roof.Considering Nixon and all the facts we know about a lot of stuff... it's a wonder they didn't try to get stereotypically looking Jewish and people of color to play their "Stoners". Ah... but the propagandists and bigots have learned to watch their bigoted steps a bit since the really old days. Stoners in the Mist was produced by hateful, bigoted, bastards of the worst degree.And we had to pay for it! I'm offended, very offended.Our young people should be offended, too.I'm offended for them.
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Comment #43 posted by FoM on April 23, 2008 at 10:01:43 PT
Hope
Yup, You're stubborn too! LOL! I think I am at the point that I need to go. Maybe tomorrow or Friday.
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Comment #42 posted by Hope on April 23, 2008 at 09:53:27 PT
As you may recall...
It took me seven weeks to see a doctor when my shoulder joint was broken smooth in two... and even then... I chose to see a chiropractor... that discovered the broken bone that wouldn't heal because I kept exercising it. I appreciate Doctors and what they can do...very, very much... I also have a very real and legitimate fear of being doctored to death.
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Comment #41 posted by FoM on April 23, 2008 at 09:52:41 PT
Hope
I just don't trust doctors anymore. I will go though because the pain won't let me not go if it happens again. It is disabling and that will make me go. I didn't like getting sick and I was alone because Stick was on the road. Fear compounds pain. I'll take 40 instead of 20 for a week or so and if I don't start feeling better day by day it will be time to give up and go to the doctor. I am a stubborn individual. LOL! I know so are you!
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Comment #40 posted by Hope on April 23, 2008 at 09:45:20 PT
I so understand your reluctance
to be doctored on.Even with insurance... I have to be pretty sure I might actually be at death's door before I will submit to it.
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Comment #39 posted by FoM on April 23, 2008 at 09:38:21 PT
Hope
Please don't worry about money. Stick and I will get thru it. We have a credit card and we can get an advance on it if I need tests. So many people don't even have that option. I didn't want to go to the doctor that gave my Mom the wrong medication that took her life so when our neighbor found this clinic in another town that isn't far away it gave me a sense of relief. I also gave up all sodas and am only drinking water which appears to be helping. If the pain comes back one more time I am off to the clinic.
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Comment #38 posted by Hope on April 23, 2008 at 09:34:33 PT
A yard sale, maybe.
I haven't had one in over thirty years... I probably NEED to have one.
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Comment #37 posted by Hope on April 23, 2008 at 09:31:37 PT
Being a married woman that does not
have any job that pays wages.... just lots of jobs.... I have to filter stuff through the wage earner, my husband, who can creak when he walks... as in kind of "tight" ... but I bet I can get some money.Unfortunately, and ultimately, in spite of my desire to do so, I didn't do anything to help my dear Runruff... except worry and pray and rant... but I can, I hope, get some money for this if I have to recycle cans.
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Comment #36 posted by Hope on April 23, 2008 at 09:19:40 PT
BGreen is right.
"Go to the doctor and let us worry about paying for it."A simple blood test would show if you had the H. pylori type ulcers. Bugs eating holes in your stomach. Then there'd be antibiotics... which was hell for me.If it's the other kind... GERD... it means medicine like Prilosec, diet, watching certain medicines, elevating your bed at the head and seeking peace and calmness...pretty much forever.Of course they want to look inside you... but they can tell a lot and do something from just symptoms.
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Comment #35 posted by FoM on April 23, 2008 at 08:28:31 PT
BGreen
Thank you so much. Pain is very disabling. I know the stress of everything going on right now has contributed to my illness. I keep my frustrations inside and don't often vent them and maybe I should be more vocal when things upset me but it's hard for me to do. One day at a time. Thank Mrs. Green too please. I know when Obama wins the nomination I will feel pressure lifted. I can't stand Hillary Clinton.
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Comment #34 posted by BGreen on April 23, 2008 at 08:18:19 PT
I'm glad you're feeling better, FoM
My offer remains on the table. Please accept it any time you need. Our experience with Robin made me vow that I'd never again sit around after the fact wishing I could have done something to help my friend.{Big Hugs}The Reverend Bud Green
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Comment #33 posted by FoM on April 23, 2008 at 08:02:47 PT
BGreen
You are so sweet. I was getting better and then the pain came back with a vengeance so I did a google search and doubled up the dose of Prilosec and I am in my 5th day of no pain. I think I have a stomach ulcer. I found a walk in clinic in our area and if the pain comes back again I will go to the clinic. We have the money to pay for a doctor but not expensive tests. Lord knows we need to get Universal Health Care for the citizens of the USA. Thank you so much for the offer. Stick has stayed home with me this week to make sure I am doing ok. I even danced last night to Pink Houses! LOL!
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Comment #32 posted by BGreen on April 23, 2008 at 07:52:39 PT
FoM
I'm really worried about your health. I've read where you say you're sick. I don't have insurance, either, but if I wasn't getting better after a certain period of time I'd find a way to see a doctor.I know you're a proud woman, but I ask you to seriously consider what I'm going to suggest. Many times God sends help through the people who care about us, but many times we refuse the help sent by God because of our pride and not wanting to impose on our friends and family.Your health is more important to me than money. I'm proposing a simple solution to your problems that I'm positive will be met with enthusiasm by the rest of my CNews family.A little bit of money from each of us will equal a lot in letting you see the doctor and get your good health back.Go to the doctor and let us worry about paying for it.There's no difference in what I'm proposing for you and what we did to help Runruff and Mrs. Runruff. I got more satisfaction from helping them than I ever could have received from anything else I could have bought with that money.Mrs. Green and I love you and Stick. Please let us help.The Reverend Bud Green
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Comment #31 posted by FoM on April 23, 2008 at 07:35:34 PT
Had Enough
Thank you for the video. We can change the world if we stay Forever Young.Bob Dylan - Forever Young http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Il-WqilLCPM
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Comment #30 posted by OverwhelmSam on April 23, 2008 at 04:55:21 PT
No One Takes the Commercials Seriously
It's a slap in the face. I too am offended by the commercials, it's consloing to know that no one takes these commercials seriously, except the cannabis user haters. The government has invested heavily into marketing pot users as the dregs of Society. In my opinion, these officials in high places are the dregs of Society. I'll turn the other cheek of my ass so they can kiss it.
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Comment #29 posted by Had Enough on April 22, 2008 at 21:04:35 PT
Music
The best ‘mind altering drug’ known to mankind.Really soothes the spirit/soul…If you let it…************Ghost Dancehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTY2pmKguDg
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Comment #28 posted by FoM on April 22, 2008 at 20:50:07 PT
Had Enough
What a great way to end the day. I love Pink Houses. That's my kind of America.
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Comment #27 posted by Had Enough on April 22, 2008 at 20:36:38 PT
Brother John…
Pink Houseshttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6q17h75pMQ4Nauseating vibe…dissipating….:).
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Comment #26 posted by FoM on April 22, 2008 at 19:55:21 PT
Had Enough
I didn't listen to it. I muted the sound. I've been sick for too long and today I was feeling good and I wasn't going to let her get me feeling down. I listened to John Mellencamp instead and let her go ahead and drop her confetti. If she won the nomination would she put off a pyrotechnic display? LOL!
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Comment #25 posted by Had Enough on April 22, 2008 at 19:39:16 PT
Just watched
Hillary’s win speech…Now I feel a nauseating vibe settling in…
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Comment #24 posted by FoM on April 22, 2008 at 19:29:34 PT
Had Enough
I hope she is enjoying her win in my old state where I grew up. It has the 3rd oldest demographics in the USA. She won't win North Carolina or Oregon and hopefully he will win Indiana or come close. It will be very hard to beat him now.
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Comment #23 posted by Had Enough on April 22, 2008 at 19:24:50 PT
Hillary and our boy Bill…
Just won Pennsylvania. 54% – 46%
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Comment #22 posted by FoM on April 22, 2008 at 19:12:49 PT
Off Topic
I'm watching the Obama Event in Indiana and they are playing really good John Cougar Mellencamp songs if anyone wants to listen.http://www.cnn.com/video/live/live.html?stream=stream1
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Comment #21 posted by Had Enough on April 22, 2008 at 19:06:05 PT
Well there I go again...
rchandler vs. rchandarProofreading is not one of my best qualities.
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Comment #20 posted by Had Enough on April 22, 2008 at 18:58:13 PT
rchandler
#17…I’m with you all the way on that one…every word …100%Thank You…The more society stands back from this and just accept things as “the way it is – nothing can be done about it” the worse it will get with the ‘controlling of the masses thing’ the elites and rulers have going for themselves.Peace – The world could use some of that... and the sooner, the better…
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Comment #19 posted by FoM on April 22, 2008 at 17:38:26 PT
runruff
Thank you.
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Comment #18 posted by rchandar on April 22, 2008 at 17:32:32 PT:
PS--Sam Adams
What's Obama's favorite type of music?Can Hillary dance? Can she sing in the choir?Do they "Rock?"Image, too. Remember, Bill Clinton played "Heartbreak Hotel" on the "Arsenio Hall Show," back in 92?
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Comment #17 posted by rchandar on April 22, 2008 at 17:26:43 PT:
Sam Adams
Listen. Look at the commercials, the front pages of your login, the way in which they talk......in the minds of many GOP supporters--and thinkers--they have an easy victory over the Dems. They've gotten used to their power, which clearly few of them really deserve.Listen. There are so many qualified minority and liberals who are sitting on the bench because of these overglorified civil servants--who take every opportunity to act like they're God's gift--think they deserve to rule indefinitely, without question.Listen. Money won't do it all. We've got to CHALLENGE their rule, shock them, scare them, intimidate them with the FORCE of our POWER as CITIZENS and THINKERS. And we haven't done that very well. For seven years, I've seen us on the defensive, constantly. They give us orders, THAT's what's happened, year after year.If THEY win, that means that these people will start to take their rule for granted. Lawyers, fraternity alumni, business execs, evangelical SUV drivers--have been in power for too long and have totally mismanaged everything. They hold an unchallenged control over America's morality and view of the world. Face it: they aren't really qualified; we have more able people who can direct this country far better.Folks, it is TIME for THEM to GO--out of power!--rchandar
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Comment #16 posted by Hope on April 22, 2008 at 17:26:19 PT
I'm offended.
I'm very offended.
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Comment #15 posted by NikoKun on April 22, 2008 at 17:22:52 PT
We need to be more offended by this...
I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm highly offended by this new campaign...All it accomplishes is to further the incorrect stereotypes and stigmas on Cannabis and Cannabis users... And in this day and age, not only should us Cannabis users be offended by it, but the rest of the country should be as well, that our government is putting this kind of thing on TV, and wasting money on that... This is a modern time, when we should be moving away from stereotypes, and misinformation propaganda campaigns... -_-The idea that all cannabis users are lazy couch vegetables is just wrong, and unfairly harms those of us, who aren't, because the laws are shaped on these stereotypes.
Most Cannabis users are just like everyone else, normal productive members of society, and are no burden nor threat... Those that do fit the stereotype... Well the pot isn't forcing them to be like that, they're just lazy, or want to be that way.
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Comment #14 posted by rchandar on April 22, 2008 at 17:06:48 PT:
A Response to Dr. Puck
Well, maybe we don't want anything from your greedy, materialistic, megalomaniac psycho BS world! Maybe we're THINKING about the stuff on TV instead of being persuaded to buy more of your useless products!And we drive well! Don't forget that!Seriously, folks, it's tripe. I haven't seen the commercials yet, but they convey nothing. Most stoners that I know like to listen to music--they like music, especially when it has a MESSAGE other than "buy more products! Be exactly like the people on TV! Have faith in our leaders who are doing even stupider things like ruining the planet and cheating us!"Hmm. Skateboarding, surfing, hiking, walking, camping--WTF are these guys' problems? Oh, and "maturity." I see. The mark of a human's "maturity" is that they support the War on Drugs? This is your "litmus test" of whether we're men and women?Give me a break.
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Comment #13 posted by runruff on April 22, 2008 at 16:57:28 PT:
FoM
"China is a Communist nation and they are the USA's banker now."What a profound and true statement!
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Comment #12 posted by FoM on April 22, 2008 at 14:40:54 PT
Dankhank
Thank you. I thought it was something about Communism but I never followed anything about Communism since it wasn't an interest of mine and was never taught in school. I don't know how Communism could be an issue since China is a Communist nation and they are the USA's banker now.
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Comment #11 posted by Dankhank on April 22, 2008 at 14:24:17 PT
try this ...
or google McCarthy Army hearingshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McCarthyism
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Comment #10 posted by FoM on April 22, 2008 at 13:51:50 PT
Sam
What actually is McCarthyism? I never paid attention to politics after Bobby Kennedy was murdered and I was too young to be involved before Bobby. I tuned out totally. Dumb me believed Reagan and voted for him but never again will I be that gullible. I didn't vote again until John Kerry.
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Comment #9 posted by Sam Adams on April 22, 2008 at 13:43:38 PT
glorifying cannabis for the masses
Did anyone actually watch this stuff? I thought the clip where the male student flirts with the female one was MOST interesting.The guy is black and the girl is white. The irony! It's almost like the feds are saying "here is the old target of persecution in schools. here he is, showing us who the NEW target of Jim Crow is: any teenager that doesn't look quite right! I also see it another subtle jab at the culture wars of the 60s. It's saying "OK, you baby boomers that forced the blacks into our schools. Here they are, and now we're going to arrest you and your kids for your weed. Gotcha!"If Obama gets to run we're about to enter a 6 month period of pure McCarthyism, I wonder if anyone else will stand up and denounce the American propaganda machine. The way Hillary's been going, you'd think she's auditioning to be McCain's VP. It'd be a perfect fit. You can see now that the same people that back McCain are backing Clinton. Same money, same voters, same smear campaign. Thanks, Clintons!
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Comment #8 posted by runruff on April 22, 2008 at 10:24:26 PT:
Reverend Ray.
I really enjoyed the song but did you catch these three ladies?They are great!!!!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYKGE6erN0Q&feature=related
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Comment #7 posted by FoM on April 22, 2008 at 07:48:31 PT
Had Enough
Glad you liked it. I love that song.
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Comment #6 posted by Had Enough on April 22, 2008 at 07:46:30 PT
Our Money on Drugs...
Insanity - Doing the Same Thing Over and Over Again Expecting a Different Result.Any Questions???************The tune in comment #3…Cool.Steve Martin on the Banjo…I love that Bass guitar… You don’t see many of those. It has a good sound…Clean and clear.
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Comment #5 posted by dongenero on April 22, 2008 at 07:24:42 PT
my tax dollars at work.....errr waste.
"Above the Influence" may be able to piss away yours and my hard earned tax dollars, but thankfully, (and hopefully,.....oh yes, they're out to get you and I) we can all remain above their influence.And the jack ass ad agencies are taking blood money basically. Slime balls.
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Comment #4 posted by Yanxor on April 22, 2008 at 06:15:50 PT
Someone call the cops
What in the lords name is that scientist doing?Those losers should be getting arrested for their evil and subversive activity.Look at the lack of motivation! In a free society such as ours, that shit won't fly - what are we, communists?While you guys just laugh at this, I hope you realize that marijuana has caused these kids to go on to cocaine. But luckily, cocaine is not as dangerous as the schedule I devil's weed.
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Comment #3 posted by FoM on April 22, 2008 at 05:33:22 PT
RevRayGreen
This song always come to my mind when I see the word's Pete's Couch.You Ain't Goin' Nowherehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHgXVOJneJ8
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Comment #2 posted by ezrydn on April 22, 2008 at 05:25:21 PT
My Question
It would seem that the government, amongst others, feel that one must be "motivated" 24/7. What's with that??? Where is it inscribed in stone that I must remain "motivated" every waking moment?Occasionally, I like to become "unmotivated." Or, in more common terms, "relaxed." Just like the pint or six that the Prohibs have after work. I'm sure they drink, not for their health, but to simply "relax." To become momentarily "unmotivated."So, in true fashion, Johnny has pissed away more of our unrecoverable tax dollars on his Super-Follies. This guy's got Reefer Madness on the brain!Unmotivated, Johnny Pee? I have two Ph.Ds and a Law Degree. How motivated was the Drug Czar in school???
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Comment #1 posted by RevRayGreen on April 22, 2008 at 05:20:44 PT
this will be as popular
as 'Petes Couch' :)
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