NCJ Number
107604
Date Published
1987
Length
401 pages
Annotation
This book critiques current U.S. drug policy and proposes alternative policies for obtaining the benefits of drugs and addressing the dangers of drugs.
Abstract
It documents how America's current drug war creates millions of victims while benefiting few. It argues that the billion-dollar war has failed to stop the production, importation, or abusive use of drugs while it has diverted attention from the control of tobacco and alcohol abuse, the most destructive drugs. The death of Len Bias from a drug overdose became the impetus for the passage of laws and policies that have eroded traditional democratic principles without benefiting the general public. Suggested policies would make it legal for adults to grow and possess marijuana for personal use; distinguish between reasonable and abusive drug use; and impose greater controls on alcohol and tobacco and less controls on such drugs as marijuana, heroin, and cocaine. Moreover, doctors would be allowed to provide clean drugs and needles to addict patients to improve their health, curb the spread of AIDS, and reduce crime. Subject index.