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Writer's picturePsychedelic Society SA

Decriminalisation or Legalisation?


SHOULD WE BE FIGHTING FOR DECRIMINALIZATION OR LEGALISATION? 🔎⚖️


Both decriminalization and legalization have their merits, but the choice between the two depends on various factors such as cultural attitudes, potential risks, and regulatory frameworks. Decriminalization typically means that the possession and use of magic mushrooms would be treated as a minor offense, often resulting in civil penalties rather than criminal charges. This approach can help reduce the burden on the legal system and prioritize resources for more serious crimes while also acknowledging personal autonomy and harm reduction.


On the other hand, legalization involves regulating the production, distribution, and sale of magic mushrooms. This allows for quality control, age restrictions, and taxation, but it also requires a comprehensive regulatory framework to address potential risks and ensure public safety. Legalization can also provide opportunities for research, education, and harm reduction initiatives.


In the case of South Africa, policymakers would need to consider factors such as public opinion, existing drug policies, healthcare infrastructure, and potential socioeconomic impacts before deciding which approach to take. Ultimately, the goal should be to minimise harm, promote public health, and respect individual rights.


Generally aa PsySocSA we advocate for decriminalizing plant medicines to prioritize personal use over mass commercialisation. We believe this approach respects indigenous traditions, prioritizes individual autonomy, and avoids complete commodification. By decriminalizing and providing more adequate public education around the topic, we believe it’s possible to reduce the harm caused by prohibition, promote access to plant medicines, and foster a more holistic approach to healing and well-being.


What do you think ?

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I agree with decriminalized plant medicines.

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This is not entirely correct. 

Legalisation: the process by which drug-related activities, in this case, the cultivation, possession and sale of psychoactive mushrooms, become legal activities. Period. No "its buts or maybes". Think Coca-Cola.

Legal Regulation: the market and sale of selected drugs (ie mushrooms) are legal but governed by state rules and agencies. Think Alcohol.

Decriminalisation involves "T's and C's". Criminal penalties are removed; No criminal record is required for the use, possession, or cultivation of mushrooms for personal consumption

Sale/Trade remains criminalised

The possession or cultivation of amounts exceeding a certain threshold (determined by the government) could still result in criminal penalties. Think Cannabis.

Decriminalisation with Administrative Sanctions involves the removal of criminal penalties, so no criminal record or incarceration, but less severe penalties may still…


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