• SupraMario@lemmy.world
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    2 years ago

    In the USA less than 9% of the population smokes now. It’s probably around ~7% at this point. It’s crazy that we keep putting out laws like it’s a massive issue. The reality is alcoholism is way worse than it’s ever been yet it’s still allowed to advertise on the TV and they can sell fruity flavors…but think of the children when it comes to tobacco…

    • theragu40@lemmy.world
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      2 years ago

      I’m hesitant to spin valid concerns about alcohol into de-vilification of smoking. They are both vices, both unhealthy, both dangerous to the user and those around them for different reasons.

      So yeah, it’s valid to say we ignore the dangers of alcohol. But also yes, we should “think of the children” when it comes to tobacco.

      • SupraMario@lemmy.world
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        2 years ago

        What kid is picking up coffin nails these days? They vape or drink. It’s probably why the FDA dropped deeming regulations when the cigar manufacturers went after them, no kid is smoking a $10 cigar.

        • theragu40@lemmy.world
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          2 years ago

          That is threadbare justification for deregulation of something we know has basically entirely negative effects and absolutely is something that kids have historically done.

          Kids’ habits are fickle and unpredictable. Removing barriers to destructive behavior simply because they don’t do that behavior as often anymore (the current regulations seem to work??) makes no sense.

    • GamingChairModel@lemmy.world
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      2 years ago

      Well, the U.S. consumes a significant amount less alcohol than most European countries. So with both vices, Europe is doing worse than the U.S.

      • SupraMario@lemmy.world
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        2 years ago

        Sure but both countries are pushing tobacco laws like mad, while not touching alcohol.

        It’s literally prohibition all over again…

        I’m one for letting people enjoy whatever vice they want, even if it’s hard drugs, but only because I know prohibition doesn’t work. We shouldn’t be telling adults what they can and cannot enjoy

        • dragonflyteaparty@lemmy.world
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          2 years ago

          To an extent, I see where you’re coming from, but if we keep cigarettes legal, most of the additives need to go. There’s no need to put tar and acytone in a cigarette.

        • WhiteHawk@lemmy.world
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          2 years ago

          Cigarettes are much worse for everyone around you than alcohol. Passive smoking is pretty dangerous and the main reason why so many laws exist against smoking in public places.