Very true. The other side to the coin is that people are more apt to experiment with legal drugs than they are illegal drugs. The sheer factor of risk-avoidance will prevent numerous kids from using cocaine. But if we legalize it, there's not that stigma there. It's out there and available. And more people will try it.
So what's better? Bobby going out and getting sloshed one night and puking everywhere, or Bobby getting coked up out of his mind?
I might be able to see the legalization of marijuana. I'd vigorously oppose cocaine and LSD.
The author appears to be making an "all or nothing" argument. Which, if you think about it, is much more consistent than yours.
Wouldn't it still be illegal for a kid to try any drug, just as it's illegal for them to try alcohol now?
I know that kids that want to drink today, manage to get their hands on beer and such - the same is true for drugs - legal or not.
It could also be said that kids try drugs because they are illegal (but I don't buy that one, either).
Personally, I think the legality of a drug is way down on the checklist that might deter a kid from trying it - if it even is a consideration at all.
Fear of the effects, parental ramifications, peer pressure, are among the top of the list, IMHO.
Why not be honest to Bobby and tell him that coke can do these things, while you refuse to give him your identification-- as that will now be required for him to make a purchase?