TRIGGERnometry The True Cost of the War On Drugs - Ioan Grillo
Aug 8, 2021
Ioan Grillo, a British journalist based in Mexico City, dives deep into the failures of the war on drugs. He discusses the historical roots of drug policies, from the 1914 Harrison Narcotic Tax Act to today's rampant violence in Latin America. Grillo reveals the complex relationship between drug cartels and local communities, highlighting admiration and fear. He critiques Western hypocrisy and calls for reevaluating drug policies, stressing the psychological toll of violence and advocating for reforms, including legalization discussions.
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Morgue Experience
- Ioan Grillo found himself in a morgue with 49 decapitated bodies.
- This experience highlighted the brutality of the drug war and inspired his writing.
Drug War History
- The drug war traces back to 1914 with the Harrison Narcotic Tax Act.
- It escalated under Nixon in 1971, leading to increased violence and drug use.
Profit and Violence
- The immense profit margins in the drug trade incentivize violent individuals.
- This makes it difficult to stop the cycle of violence.
