NCJ Number
127353
Journal
Journal of Drug Issues Volume: 20 Issue: 4 Dated: (Fall 1990) Pages: 543-554
Date Published
1990
Length
12 pages
Annotation
In the contemporary context of the international AIDS epidemic, the War on Drugs does society more harm than good.
Abstract
Historical examples of "legalizing the lesser to minimize the greater" social harm are cited as workable alternatives, including acceptance of drug users as members of society; understanding that temperance means moderation, not prohibition; diluting the strength of dangerous drugs; substituting less powerful natural drugs for more powerful extracts and synthetics; and designing safer drugs. The key to successful drug policy is a comprehensive strategy which recognizes human differences and is geared to social harm reduction rather than drug prohibition. 28 references (Author abstract)