This text reader presents differing perspectives with detailed commentary on the policy debate surrounding current drug policy.

The world of legal and illegal drugs is examined from sociological, historical, and biological perspectives through articles garnered from popular magazines, medical journals, and government documents.

The framework of this book allows students to access material from diverse disciplines and encourages them to engage in a discussion. Point/Counterpoint: Opposing Perspectives on Issues of Drug Policy, presents a wide range of views to help shape and broaden the current debate over the theories and realities which infuse the drug policy debate.

The book opens with selections on the question of drug legalization, and then extends the parameters of the discussion to the social implications of drug policy. Next, the prevention and medicalization of drug dependency and abuse are considered in light of recently-published research. Finally, the government's role in decriminalization and regulation of marijuana and prescription drugs is investigated and critiqued.

Point/Counterpoint: Opposing Perspectives on Issues of Drug Policy is a book that stands alone, but it is recommended that this text be used in conjunction with Drugs, Behavior, and Modern Society, also by Levinthal.