War on Drugs Is Not Futile (From Legalizing Drugs, P 96-109, 1996, Karin L. Swisher, ed. -- See NCJ-160030)

• NCJ Number: 160039
• Author(s): J Q Wilson
• Date Published: 1996
• Length: 14 pages
• Sale Source: Greenhaven Press
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Opposing Viewpoints Series

Annotation

Since the 1970's, the criminal justice system has worked hard to enforce laws against drug trafficking, sales, possession, and use and has succeeded in reducing the number of casual drug users and in preventing drug-related crime; legalizing drugs would mean giving up the struggle against the harmful effects of drugs.

Abstract

In particular, heroin use has declined in recent years but factors contributing to this decline are not totally clear. Crack is worse than heroin by almost any measure, and the effects of crack use make it clear that drug abuse is not a victimless crime. Crack causes damage to infants when used by pregnant mothers, particularly in the form of physical deformities and neurological damage. Because of their harmful effects, drugs should not be legalized. Arguments for and against drug legalization are evaluated in the context of drug treatment, the alcohol problem, and drug addiction. 1 note