Choosing to use marijuana has been a constant throughout my adult life, intermittently paused by brief periods of abstinence.
Despite being content with my choice, I frequently find myself under scrutiny—from curious friends, concerned family members, and even medical professionals—each subtly suggesting that perhaps I should reconsider.
But why is it that I’m consistently required to justify my marijuana use?
Our society often imposes undue pressure on those who use marijuana, driving people into abstaining simply out of fear of societal judgment, rather than personal conviction.
In this article, I’ll explore 7 compelling reasons why marijuana users are less likely to fall victim to brainwashing.
By the end, I hope to make the point that there’s no shame in choosing to use marijuana, just as there’s no shame in choosing not to.
1) Enhanced introspection
This was a concept that took me some time to fully grasp.
“Enhanced introspection” came from the understanding that marijuana use often leads to self-reflection, deep thought and critical thinking. But the truth is, this state of introspection is what shields users from easily falling prey to brainwashing.
Allow me to elaborate.
Consider your mind at this moment. Thoughts are constantly sprouting like weeds. Each idea, each thought, each judgement grows on its own. While reading these words, your mind has likely drifted off to other subjects at least once or twice.
If you’re going to be a marijuana user, it’s essential to recognize that you’re not easily swayed. You’re operating independently.
It’s crucial to let go of the misconception that marijuana users are aimless or easily manipulated. They aren’t. Their actions stem from a place of introspection and self-awareness, and are most potent when they occur independently of societal pressures. When they act instinctively.
2) The mind’s observer
Advice on the effects of marijuana often leans towards “increased paranoia” or “lack of focus.” While this is a common narrative, it doesn’t fully encompass the marijuana experience.
Instead, the marijuana experience often involves becoming an “observer” of one’s mind. It involves examining your thoughts. As a renowned philosopher once said:
“Watch your mind. Don’t interfere—no preconceived notions, no expectations—just observe whatever your mind is doing. Don’t suppress it, don’t control it, don’t repress it; don’t do anything at all on your part. You just be an observer, and the marvel of observing is the true essence. As you observe, slowly the mind becomes free of thoughts; but you are not becoming lethargic, you are becoming more alert, more conscious.”
When society tries to label marijuana users as “easily influenced” or “apathetic,” they give too much power to pre-existing biases. They undermine our instinctive resilience.
Now, I give less credence to these stereotypes. Sometimes I have introspective thoughts. Other times I’m contemplating profound ideas. I don’t let societal views dictate my experience anymore.
3) You will soon be sceptical
One may convince oneself that societal norms and mainstream narratives are always right, but before long, as a marijuana user, you might find yourself questioning the credibility of these norms and narratives.
You might even find yourself on the receiving end of that scepticism. Few societal constructs are strong enough to weather such questioning.
Scepticism is a natural human instinct, but if you willingly put yourselves in a position to question everything, you are potentially unsettling the status quo.
Also, it’s important to ask yourself about the role of scepticism in your life.
Perhaps you and your fellow marijuana users are feeling sceptical because you have genuine reasons to question the given facts.
Often, we berate ourselves for scepticism, as though it’s something that we shouldn’t entertain.
Perhaps it’s time to embrace these feelings. They may be a sign that you’re onto a path of independent thinking.
4) Your perception is what matters
I began this article by focusing on societal judgments and misconceptions.
The thing is, these societal judgments and misconceptions often dictate how we perceive people.
In my case, as a marijuana user, I tend to become introspective. I delve deep into my thoughts and often disconnect from the outer world.
My intentions are good. Marijuana use has the potential to enhance critical thinking and self-awareness.
But when I get so introspective, I can slip into the habit of thinking my personal journey is more significant than societal norms. I can lose touch with mainstream narratives. I become sceptical and am probably not such a conventional person in society’s eyes.
If I judged myself for societal norms, I wouldn’t question my perceptions.
Instead, because I don’t focus on societal judgments, I am more able to reflect on my perceptions and change how I think. I am learning to balance introspection with societal engagement.
Your perception is what matters, not the societal judgments that shape your behavior.
5) Cognitive flexibility is key
I recall an instance from my college days that perfectly illustrates this point. A professor of mine often emphasized the importance of accepting mainstream narratives and existing societal norms. As a marijuana user, I found this quite challenging.
One day, he presented a concept that seemed flawed to me. While others nodded in agreement, I found myself questioning his theory. Instead of accepting it at face value, I delved into an extensive research process, seeking alternate viewpoints and perspectives.
My marijuana-induced introspection had given birth to a sense of cognitive flexibility that allowed me to question, analyze and form my own reasoned conclusions. This didn’t make me resistant to learning. Instead, it made me resistant to accepting information without critical thinking.
From then on, I’ve learned that cognitive flexibility—being open to different ideas while critically evaluating them—is not just about defying societal norms or resisting brainwashing. It’s about fostering an environment within oneself that values knowledge and personal growth over blind acceptance.
6) The power of THC
Marijuana’s active ingredient, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), interacts with the brain in a distinct way, leading to heightened cognitive function and introspection. It’s this interaction that acts as a shield against manipulative influences and brainwashing.
Here’s the key point:
This fact encourages us to reflect on the power of THC, to understand its effects on our mind, and to appreciate the enhanced cognitive function it promotes.
For those feeling easily swayed or influenced, understanding the impact of THC can provide a sense of empowerment. It’s a reminder that we are part of a larger cognitive process, one that stretches beyond societal pressures and will continue to evolve with us.
Recognizing the power of THC encourages us to see our journey as part of a larger cognitive narrative and can provide a sense of purpose and independence.
7) The paradox of conformity
Marijuana users are often stereotyped as non-conformists, rebelling against societal norms and expectations. However, it’s this very divergence from the norm that paradoxically makes them less susceptible to brainwashing.
You see, brainwashing relies on conformity, on individuals succumbing to societal pressures or external influences without question. However, the introspective nature of a marijuana user often leads to questioning, analyzing, and forming independent conclusions.
Recognizing this paradox is not an endorsement of rebellion for the sake of rebellion. Rather, it’s an acknowledgment that the strength to question, to think critically, and to value individual perception over collective assumptions is a powerful defense against manipulation.
In essence, marijuana users’ perceived non-conformity may actually be their greatest tool in resisting brainwashing. It’s in their divergence from the norm that they find their shield against undue influence.
Bottom line: It could be cognitive
The complexities of human cognition and behavior often have profound associations with our personal choices and experiences.
One such association is the relationship between marijuana users and a cognitive trait known as critical thinking.
This trait, prevalent among many high-functioning individuals, acts as a shield against manipulation and brainwashing, playing an indispensable role in independent thought formation.
For marijuana users, critical thinking might be a key factor in their resistance to brainwashing. The cognitive flexibility potentially induced by marijuana use could foster a sense of liberation and intellectual independence when they engage in introspective activities.
Whether it’s questioning societal norms, challenging mainstream narratives, exploring alternate perspectives, or forming reasoned conclusions, the underlying cognitive dynamics might be enhancing their resilience against undue influence.
In essence, the cognitive flexibility fostered by marijuana use may not just be about defying societal pressures or resisting manipulation. It’s about nurturing an intellectual environment within oneself that values personal growth, knowledge, and independent thought over blind acceptance. It’s the understanding that our choices, perceptions and beliefs should emanate from personal introspection rather than external pressures.
