NCJ Number
102574
Journal
Drugs and Society Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Dated: (Fall 1986) Pages: 111-126
Date Published
1986
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses drug use from the perspective of cultural anthropology, viewing it as the inevitable result of human technology.
Abstract
Webster defines technology as 'the totality of the means employed by a people to provide itself with the objects of material culture.' Both old and new technologies have contributed to the psychoactive material culture currently available. The desire to change mood with psychoactive substances is well-entrenched in U.S. society. Different groups fulfill this desire with an assortment of substances. Group differences are apparently diminishing, and substance possibilities are expanding. Technology has unintended adverse consequences, and drug technologies are no exception. Although the drug industry cannot be blamed for illicit drug use, it has made the public aware of a wider range of possibilities for mood change. Restrictions, regulations, and other control mechanisms do not contain the risks and do not significantly impact risk-taking behavior. The political process more than proven deterrence effectiveness has contributed to the criminalization of certain types of drug use. 12 references.