The Legalization of Drugs (For and Against) - Softcover

Husak, Douglas

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521546869 ISBN 13: 9780521546867

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2006

Synopsis

This book presents two philosophical views on the legalization of drugs.

About this title

Book Description:

In the US today the use or possession of many drugs is a criminal offense. Husak argues in favor of drug decriminalization, by clarifying the meaning of crucial terms. de Marneffe argues against drug legalization, demonstrating why drug prohibition is necessary to protect young people from self-destructive drug use.

Synopsis:

In the United States today, the use or possession of many drugs is a criminal offense. Can these criminal laws be justified? What are the best reasons to punish or not to punish drug users? These are the fundamental issues debated in this book by two prominent philosophers of law. Douglas Husak argues in favor of drug decriminalization, by clarifying the meaning of crucial terms, such as legalize, decriminalize, and drugs; and by identifying the standards by which alternative drug policies should be assessed. He critically examines the reasons typically offered in favor of our current approach and explains why decriminalization is preferable. Peter de Marneffe argues against drug legalization, demonstrating why drug prohibition, especially the prohibition of heroin, is necessary to protect young people from self-destructive drug use. If the empirical assumptions of this argument are sound, he reasons, drug prohibition is perfectly compatible with our rights to liberty.

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2006
• ISBN 10: 0521546869
• ISBN 13: 9780521546867
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 222