"We've shown that the marijuana gateway effect is
Post# of 612
An alternative, simpler and more compelling explanation accounts for the pattern of drug use you see in this country, without resort to any gateway effects. While the gateway theory has enjoyed popular acceptance, scientists have always had their doubts. Our study shows that these doubts are justified.[...]
The people who are predisposed to use drugs and have the opportunity to use drugs are more likely than others to use both marijuana and harder drugs. Marijuana typically comes first because it is more available."
-- Andrew Morral, PhD
Researcher, Rand Corporation
Press release discussing his study published in the U.K. journal Addiction
Dec. 2, 2002