y integrated, it becomes dysfunctional to society. In terms of marijuana abuse, many institutions of society would be dysfunctional if its members were marijuana users. For instance, family would be dysfunctional if parents were not able to raise future productive members of society. This would be true if either the parents or child were marijuana abusers. Likewise, the same outcome could be seen in the other structures of society such as members of the educational system, or government institutions, and production in the workplace. Functionalist theorists would view marijuana abuse as a potentially far-reaching social problem given that every structure would be involved. Conflict theorists would consider marijuana abuse as a social problem because of the power struggle involving law enforcement and drug abusers. "This perspective focuses on the creation of rules, especially criminal law"(Herman 83). Specifically, by making the commodity of marijuana an illegal substance it creates an atmosphere of control. Thus, when members of society are forced to commit illegal acts it allows law enforcement agencies to wield power and force against them. This in turn creates conflict. Additionally a power struggle ensues between people who have and control the supply of marijuana and people who want it. This is a classic example of "the haves" versus "the have-nots," of the powerful versus the powerless. Conflict theory seems to fit best in examining the issue of marijuana abuse. Conflict theory addresses the many issues surrounding marijuana use. For example, due to the fact that the powerful control the marijuana industry there is a disparity in the criminal prosecution of certain classes, races, and socioeconomic groups. These less powerful groups are victims of discrimination. While the use of marijuana definitely inhibits an individual's life, the abuse of power surrounding marijuana, is far more harmful to society. Conflict theory addresses t...
