4/20 has been hollowed out by branding, corporate silence, and a culture that forgot its own history. While the industry sells holiday merch, Singapore executed a man for cannabis. The movement that once fought for autonomy now treats the plant like a commodity. This piece examines the cost of that betrayal and the culture left behind.
Ed Rosenthal and the Origins of High Times
Ed Rosenthal recounts how the magazine was born not from psychedelic myth but from hard numbers. Rolling paper import data, underground press experience, and market logic revealed a massive hidden cannabis audience. His account challenges the romantic origin story and offers a rare firsthand look at the early mechanics behind one of cannabis culture’s most influential publications.
CANNABIS LIES Vol. 8: The Addiction Lie
Cannabis is often labeled addictive, but the science tells a more precise story. This piece breaks down cannabis use disorder, how it is defined, and why mild, moderate, and severe cases get flattened into one fear-driven narrative. The result is a distorted public understanding of risk that fuels policy, perception, and misinformation.
Australia Cracks Down on Medical Cannabis
Australia’s medical cannabis system expanded rapidly through telehealth and high-volume prescribing. Now regulators are tightening oversight. The TGA and AHPRA are increasing scrutiny on prescribing practices, signaling a shift from rapid patient access toward stricter clinical control that could reshape how doctors prescribe and how patients obtain treatment.
Missouri Tightens Grip On Hemp Sales
Missouri legalized cannabis, then moved to squeeze intoxicating hemp into the dispensary system. HB 2641 is being sold as consumer protection, but critics say it protects licensed marijuana operators while threatening hemp retailers, growers, and small businesses across the state.
CANNABIS LIES Vol. 7: The Mental Health Panic
Cannabis and mental health risks are often overstated in public debate. Research shows heavy use and high THC exposure can increase psychosis risk in vulnerable individuals, but widespread claims of a mental health crisis lack strong evidence. This piece examines the data, separates correlation from causation, and breaks down what cannabis users need to know.