For this thread, I want to know your opinion of America's long running "war" against drugs... after having read all the readings, do you think it has been successful or generally a waste of taxpayer money?
Do you believe the goals are even achievable? What happened during alcohol Prohibition, and what are the similarities to the present situation with drugs?
Using specific examples from the extra reading on Portugal, what surprised you the most about the results they've had in taking a different approach, and along with the reading about teaching a "safety first" drug policy, do these suggest there are other ways to address the issues of drug use other than how America currently does things?
Do you believe it's fair that we've made using certain drugs punishable by imprisonment while we readily endorse the use of alcohol?
Finally, regarding the reading on Federal sentencing, do you think every group in America has been equally affected by the drug war, or are some populations more prone to being burdened with a heavier load to bear?
Articles :
1. The Social Impact of Drugs and the War on Drugs : The Social Construction of Drug Scares By Craig Reinarman.
2. Drug DECRIMINALIZATION IN PORTUGAL : Lessons for Creating Fair and Successful Drug Policies By CATO INSTITUTE.
3. Commonsense Drug Policy By Ethan A. Nadelmann.
4. African Americans, Crack, and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines By James A. Inciardi.
5. Saftey First : A Reality-Based Approach to Teens, Drugs and Drug Education By marsha Rosenbaum.