The We Society
S6 Ep6: Why the war on drugs has failed with Alex Stevens
Aug 14, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Alex Stevens, a Professor of Criminology at the University of Sheffield and author of "Drug Policy Constellations," delves into the failures of the war on drugs in Britain. He highlights the irony of increasing drug use despite strict punitive measures and describes the complex socio-economic factors driving substance consumption. Stevens advocates for decriminalization and explores the benefits of cannabis legalization, emphasizing health-focused, evidence-based reforms to tackle the pressing drug crisis effectively.
30:25
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Quick takeaways
- The war on drugs in Britain has failed significantly, as punitive measures have not deterred drug use and often worsen societal issues.
- Addressing the root causes of addiction through progressive decriminalization and trauma-informed treatment is essential for effective drug policy reform.
Deep dives
The Ineffectiveness of the War on Drugs
The war on drugs in Britain has proven largely ineffective, with drug use continuing at high levels despite crackdowns and punitive measures. Evidence suggests that incarceration often exacerbates drug problems, introducing offenders to more substance use rather than deterring them. Moreover, police interventions frequently lead to increased usage among those confronted. This highlights a systemic failure, where moral declarations in drug policy are not grounded in evidence or effective strategies to combat addiction.
