Smoking in Public. Allow it or not? Your opinion please!?

Question

I'm writing a paper for my debate class and would like to have more than one view. I have my own reasons for one side, but I am trying to keep an open mind. Please be serious. This is for a grade and I would like to have honest answers.

Answer 1

Yes, they pay taxes just like anyone else- actually- moreso with all the cigarette taxes.

Answer 2

In Ohio, we just passed a smoking ban. I voted for it for these reasons:

-If a place is nonsmoking, they actually cater to 100% of the population (since smokers can step outside)

-The ban was actually created to protect workers in establishments. Some argue that they choose to work in restaurants and bars, but sometimes that is the only job someone can get; a disproportionate number of single female parents work these jobs are are therefore affected greatly by smoke.

-It isn't taking away a "right". It is limiting a HARMFUL habit. The benefits of NOT exposing others to the fumes outweighs the benefits (if there are any) of smoking in public

-If I may add, the "fat person" argument is poor. Overweight people do not force others to eat their meals.

-People can still smoke in their own homes, where it affects THEM.

-I truly believe that those who do not have a filthy habit should be catered to over those who have one. Why shouldn't people who are smart enough not to smoke risk their health because someone else is careless with theirs in public?

-It isn't a simple matter of "I'll do what I want". In public, you have a duty to do what is good for the general public. I think we can all agree from a health standpoint that nonsmoking has more intrinsic value than smoking as far as public areas go. It is just logical.

-Many studies say that being nonsmoking does not harm businesses over time.

-Lastly, from personal experience (though the law is still in limbo in Ohio) I patronize establishments now because they are nonsmoking that I never would have gone into before because they were so smoky. LOTS of people are doing the same.

Answer 3

I say ban smoking in public. Yes, people have a right to smoke. But I have a right not to breathe in the second hand smoke. There is no reason they can't smoke outside. Plus, there are children everywhere as well and should not be subjected to that. If certain places want to allow smoking, then warn customers and then we can choose not to go there. I value my health, and I won't be forced to breathe in smoke just because others choose to. I have many friends that smoke and they are courteous when I am around. But not everyone is.

Answer 4

Allow it, but within reason. I live in a place now that says you can't smoke within 30 feet of a building. No smoking indoors or on a patio at a restaurant. Many residences don't allow smoking. If you smoke in your car you either smell or it's a driving hazard. I read about a couple in Iowa who weren't allowed to even smoke in their OWN HOME because the neighbors said they could smell it, so this couple has to walk out of their OWN HOME to the street.

Cigarettes are still legal, and we smokers should enjoy some kind of quiet enjoyment.

I agree with not smoking right outside a public doorway, but making us social pariahs is ridiculous.

Answer 5

I live in California where smoking in ALL public/private business' is banned. I am an ex-smoker who suffers from respiratory disease, I am glad for this ban. Recently several cities are trying to ban open air smoking, meaning from public parks/apt. balconies/ even walking down the street. I believe this has now gone to far for various reasons. If they want to ban smoking within 15-25 feet of a public entrance or assign designated areas, that would be ok.

steadfast1

Answer 6

I am very much against smoking in public places. My husband and my daughter are both highly allergic to cigarette smoke & have to take medication when they are exposed to it.

We have an apartment house & have a stipulation in the lease that they will not allow smoking in the apartments because it leaves a terrible smell in the drapery and carpets. If I have to wash the gross yellow film off the ceilings & walls, they do not get their deposit back & I bill them for the cost of professional carpet cleaners.

Fortunately, we live in New York State where smoking has been banned from restaurants. It is wonderful to be able to go out to eat without smelling that nasty odor and making my husband and daughter sick.

Answer 7

*I am a smoker* It depends on what you mean by public. Personally, I think I have the right to smoke outside (except within certain distances of school where I understand why they have that law). I have enough common curtesy to smoke outside with out blowing smoke in someone's face or moving to an area that is not crowded. It you are talking about places inside, such as an office building or restaurant, I have no problem with not smoking in those places. If second hand smoke does cause problems, I wouldn't want to force everyone else to breath it in, plus, it makes places smell bad. I can sit through one meal in a restaurant without having a smoke. Now, if you don't let me smoke outside when I'm done with my meal.....then we have problems!

Answer 8

as a former smoker, I can relate to both sides. but honestly the smell of secondhand smoke makes me physically ill. I can't stand it when people smoke right by a door going into a building. you're immediately assaulted by the fumes. I don't think smoking should be outlawed in public but smokers really should be more considerate to those people who don't want to smell like an ashtray. I swear, even when I go into an elevator and stand next to people who have just smoked the smell literally soaks into my clothes and I smell it for the rest of the day. I am that sensitive to it...there are alot of people like that. but as a former smoker i understand where they are coming from too. you gotta have a place to chill without being harrassed. most smokers just don't realize how pervasive the smell is. hope this helps!

Answer 9

I don't think that the government should ban smoking in bars and restaurants. I think that restaurants should have a designated, closed room for the smokers. As for bars if you go in there to kill your liver, then don't complain about the smoke. Either one is a drug of choice and it just so happens that smokers have chosen to kill both their liver and lungs. As for the the outdoor public people should be able to smoke just about anywhere. The only place I think should be banned is directly in front of entry ways into buildings. As for everywhere else it would be ok with me as long as you don't litter (I hate people who litter). Oh yeah, and as to the comment about smokers with the windows rolled up...ha ur car probable kills more people than a cigarette. ( that goes double for the SUV's) and...I'm sure you would rather people smoke in their cars on the way to the restaurant than inside of it. Oh yeah and I am an occasional smoker who doesn't smoke in the company of non-smokers.

Answer 10

My wife and I are smokers I am of 34 years smoking 44 years of age and spend 120.00 just in taxes a month on the smokes and think they should have to go to designated areas anything to help cut down cause its a very hard habit to beat and sets a bad example for younger people.

Answer 11

I am a smoker and wish that I really had a desire to quit but anyway, I personally don't like to smell smoke when I am out eating or am in an enclosed building. I think that if you are outside it should be ok.