An article in The Mercury prompted the usual responses about individual choice and banning sugar. The geniuses in this debate once again miss the point.
The problem is the risk vs benefit with smoking. The risks are very high and there are no benefits at all. Smoking actually takes some effort to get into, for no reward other than to feed the addiction. Even illegal substances have better CNS effects.
For mental stimulation, try caffeine instead. There are still risks but they aren't anywhere near the level of tobacco smoke.
Even if smoking was an individual choice, sometimes people need protecting from themselves. Do you wear a seatbelt when in a car? A helmet if you ride a bike? Or do you make an "individual choice" not to, despite the legal requirement?
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