Final answer:
The statement about marijuana being more potent today compared to the past is true. Increased THC levels in modern cannabis strains can be attributed to advanced cultivation techniques and changes in the plant's legal status and societal perception.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that marijuana today is more potent than it was in the past is true. Over recent years, as marijuana has undergone both decriminalization and legalization in various forms across the United States, its potency has indeed increased. Changes in public opinion and legal status, including the shift from absolute prohibition in the early 1900s to more recent acceptance of its medical use and recreational pursuit, have influenced how marijuana is cultivated and consumed.
In terms of context, it's important to understand that the legalization of marijuana has led to more advanced cultivation techniques, resulting in higher concentrations of THC, which is the psychoactive component in cannabis. This contrasts with the marijuana available in the past, which generally contained lower levels of THC. The increase in potency is also part of the broader narrative regarding marijuana's shift from being viewed historically as a societal danger to now being recognized for its potential benefits.