Drug Use for Grown-Ups

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From one of the leading experts on recreational drugs, this work presents a compelling argument that the greatest dangers of drugs stem from their illegality. Dr. Carl Hart, Ziff Professor at Columbia University, combines decades of research with personal experience to challenge the criminalization and demonization of drug use, which he believes inflicts the most harm on society. Growing up in a troubled Miami neighborhood, Hart initially sought to prove that drug use led to negative outcomes. However, his research consistently contradicted this hypothesis, revealing that the narrative surrounding drugs is often distorted to maintain fear and funding for the war on drugs, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. This book confronts deeply ingrained moral beliefs about drugs and citizenship, likening the conversation around drugs to a one-sided discussion focused solely on fatal car crashes. Hart draws parallels to Prohibition, highlighting how regulation can lead to safer outcomes. He argues that, when used responsibly, drugs can enrich lives, and emphasizes the need for a shift in perspective. Evidence from countries with more permissive drug policies, such as Portugal and Switzerland, shows improved human outcomes across the board. This vital conversation is a crucial step toward understanding the true impact of drug use and the need for reform in drug policy.