On the plus side... there would be less crime, as druggies have to afford their habit. If drugs were legalised, then the price would drop and they would be more affordable, so not as much thieving. The gangland warfare, which is predominantly drug oriented would obviously be wiped out. The question is though, would more and more people turn to drugs? Well, you have to ask yourself if price is the only thing stopping people using them. I don't think so, but there are many people who are easily led and/or stupid and some who get hooked simply from 'a moment of weakness.'
I would like drugs to be legalised purely from the crime angle alone. If people want to take drugs then, according to the 19 yrs old girls I work with, they are really easy to get hold of anyway. I have been reliably informed that everyone knows someone who can get hold of the goods.
Another point, is that because dealers want to maximize their profits, they often add other stuff to drugs ie, washing powder, so that the consumer is not getting the proper cut. I suppose their is a danger in this from a poisoning point.
I really don't know the implications. I'm sure there will be plenty of AB ers with good points for and against and some excellent links.
Good question LeedsRhinos.