1. Cannabis: Times are Changing
Cannabis, otherwise known as "ganja" in Thailand and Southeast Asia is arguably the most controversial plant in history. To many government and police organizations, it is a dangerous substance and its users are criminals. To others, the plant is considered to be anything from a relatively benign recreational substance to a miracle plant with a myriad of medicinal and industrial uses. Despite the growing trend toward decriminalization of marijuana around the world, many countries, including Thailand and the USA, persist in arresting, prosecuting and imprisoning marijuana users at a staggering rate.
This article analyzes the history of cannabis in Thailand, and the cultural and political factors affecting that history. In particular this article discusses how Cannabis influenced the curious relationship between Thailand and the USA and their entwined cultural and legal history.