Weed (cannabis) in the youth movement
Weed is a colloquial term for cannabis, a plant that contains psychoactive substances and has been used worldwide for decades. Weed plays a particularly important role in youth culture, both as a symbol of protest and as a component of leisure and identity formation.
Historical context
In the 1960s and 1970s, cannabis was closely linked to the hippie and later the counterculture movement. These youth movements campaigned against conservative values, warfare (especially the Vietnam War) and social restrictions. Cannabis was seen as a symbol of freedom, expansion of consciousness and rebellion against established norms.
Weed as an expression of youth culture
Weed became a means of expression for a generation that sought alternative lifestyles and wanted to distance itself from traditional social structures. Smoking cannabis was often part of communal rituals at music festivals, political demonstrations or informal gatherings. It promoted a sense of togetherness and openness.
Legalization movement and today’s youth
Today, the topic of cannabis and weed is closely linked to the global legalization movement. Many young people see decriminalization and legalization as a step towards more personal freedom, education and safety in dealing with the drug. At the same time, cannabis often remains a means of recreation and identity, especially in urban youth cultures.
Criticism and challenges
Despite its popularity, there are also critical voices that warn of the health risks, especially for the still-developing brains of young people. There is also a debate about how youth movements and cannabis use influence social norms and whether these developments are positive or problematic in the long term.