The Rhetoric of the Opioid Crisis

The Rhetoric of the Opioid Crisis explores the opioid crisis through modernity, arguing that stakeholders have a different rhetorical bias and have contributed to the crisis for corporate profit or inadvertently while trying to help patients.

Format: Hardback
Length: 162 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

In her groundbreaking work, "The Rhetoric of the Opioid Crisis," Rachel Sussman Kaplan delves deep into the multifaceted dimensions of the opioid crisis, shedding light on its profound impact through the lens of modernity. This thought-provoking book presents a compelling argument that the stakeholders involved in this crisis exhibit distinct rhetorical biases, with each group having made voluntary contributions in pursuit of corporate profit, as well as unintentional contributions while genuinely seeking to alleviate the suffering of patients.

Kaplan's exploration of the opioid crisis is a meticulously researched and insightful journey that uncovers the complex interplay of factors contributing to this public health catastrophe. Through her analysis, she highlights the ways in which pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, policymakers, and the general public have all played a role in perpetuating the crisis. She exposes the persuasive strategies employed by these stakeholders to promote the use of opioids as a solution to pain management, despite the well-documented risks and dangers associated with their misuse.

One of the key themes explored in "The Rhetoric of the Opioid Crisis" is the role of corporate profit in shaping public discourse and policy decisions. Kaplan argues that the pharmaceutical industry, driven by the pursuit of financial gains, has exerted significant influence over the medical community and policymakers, leading to the overprescription and widespread distribution of opioids. She exposes the financial incentives and marketing tactics employed by pharmaceutical companies to promote their products, which often prioritize profits over patient safety.

Furthermore, Kaplan delves into the unintended consequences of the opioid crisis. She highlights the devastating impact of opioid addiction on individuals, families, and communities, including the rise in overdose deaths, substance abuse disorders, and economic burdens. She also sheds light on the social and racial disparities that have exacerbated the crisis, as marginalized populations, particularly those from low-income backgrounds and communities of color, have been disproportionately affected by opioid misuse.

In response to the growing urgency of the opioid crisis, Kaplan offers a range of solutions and recommendations. She advocates for stricter regulations and oversight of the pharmaceutical industry, as well as increased investment in pain management alternatives and addiction treatment programs. She also calls for a more comprehensive approach to addressing the root causes of pain, such as addressing social and economic inequality and improving access to healthcare.

"The Rhetoric of the Opioid Crisis" is a powerful and thought-provoking book that sheds light on the complex dynamics of the opioid crisis and its impact on modern society. Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, Kaplan provides a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to the crisis and offers practical solutions for addressing it. This book is a must-read for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in understanding the nuances of the opioid crisis and its implications for public health.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 226 x 162 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793640543