The Long War on Drugs

The United States has led a global prohibition effort against certain drugs since the early twentieth century, emphasizing production restriction and criminalization over prevention and treatment. This "war on drugs" has failed, and debates continue over whether the problems of addiction and crime stem from their illegal status or the nature of the drugs themselves. Anne L. Foster's book explores the origin of the punitive approach to drugs and its continued appeal, focusing on political history, medical practices, social and cultural changes, racial, environmental, and social justice implications, and international consequences.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 15 December 2023
Publisher: Duke University Press

The United States has spearheaded a global prohibition effort against certain drugs since the early twentieth century, emphasizing production restriction and criminalization over prevention and treatment as means to reduce problematic usage. This "war on drugs" has been widely recognized as a failure, leading to periodic movements for decriminalization and legalization. Debates persist regarding whether the issues of addiction and crime associated with illicit drug use stem from their illegal status or the nature of the drugs themselves.

In her book, The Long War on Drugs, Anne L. Foster delves into the origins of the punitive approach to drugs and its enduring appeal despite its glaring shortcomings. Foster offers a comprehensive analysis, encompassing not only a political history of policy developments but also changes in medical practices and understanding of drugs. She also outlines the social and cultural shifts that have shaped different attitudes toward drugs, the racial, environmental, and social justice implications of specific drug policies, and the international consequences of US drug policy.

The book explores the historical roots of the war on drugs, tracing its origins back to the 19th century when opium was introduced to the United States. Foster argues that the war on drugs was born out of a combination of political, economic, and social factors, including the need to control marginalized populations, the desire to generate revenue for law enforcement agencies, and the belief that drugs were a threat to public health and morality.

Throughout the book, Foster highlights the flaws in the punitive approach to drugs. She points out that the war on drugs has led to an astronomical increase in incarceration rates, particularly for Black and Latinx communities. She also criticizes the disproportionate impact of drug policies on low-income and minority communities, which have been plagued by drug-related violence and disease.

Foster argues that the war on drugs has failed to address the root causes of drug use and addiction. Instead, it has created a cycle of punishment and incarceration that perpetuates drug-related problems. She advocates for a more comprehensive and compassionate approach to drug policy, one that focuses on prevention, treatment, and harm reduction.

The book also explores the social and cultural changes that have prompted different attitudes about drugs. Foster examines the role of media, popular culture, and social norms in shaping public perception of drugs and their potential risks and benefits. She also discusses the historical and ongoing discrimination against marginalized communities, which has contributed to their higher rates of drug use and addiction.

Foster outlines the racial, environmental, and social justice implications of particular drug policies. She argues that the war on drugs has perpetuated racial inequality and environmental degradation, as it has targeted Black and Latinx communities and led to the destruction of ecosystems and the displacement of communities. She also highlights the disproportionate impact of drug policies on women, who are often subjected to violence and exploitation in the drug trade.

The book also examines the international consequences of US drug policy. Foster argues that the war on drugs has undermined international cooperation and has contributed to the spread of drug-related violence and disease in other countries. She advocates for a more diplomatic and collaborative approach to drug policy, one that recognizes the sovereignty of other countries and seeks to address the root causes of drug use and addiction globally.

In conclusion, The Long War on Drugs is a powerful and thought-provoking book that provides a comprehensive overview of the history, politics, and consequences of the war on drugs. Foster's analysis highlights the flaws in the punitive approach to drugs and advocates for a more comprehensive and compassionate approach that focuses on prevention, treatment, and harm reduction. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex issues surrounding drug policy and its impact on society.

Weight: 332g
Dimension: 150 x 228 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781478025429