The Drug Paradox: An Introduction to the Sociology of Psychoactive Substances in Canada

by Tara L. Bruno, Rick Csiernik

Why are some drugs considered socially acceptable while others are demonized In Canada today, drugs are viewed as both beneficial and problematic, and there is no definitive agreement on what should be done to address drug use. The Drug Paradox examines both the empirically founded and socially constructed nature of drugs and drug use. In their exploration of the drug paradox, the authors discuss how the punitive approach to drug use in Canada continues to exist alongside strategies of harm reduction, though this only impedes Canada's ability to deal effectively with substance misuse.

285 pages, Paperback

Published June 1, 2018

Reviews

[Bristol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the setup of this book! Gives good context to the socio-cultural perspective of drugs in Canada and also has a good discussion about historical narratives on the construction of drugs and drug abuse in Canada.

[Dave Hazzan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent introduction to drugs in Canada. Any academic who researches or teaches drug use could probably benefit from it.

[Ben Ullman · Rating 3 out of 5]

For a drug addictions course, pretty cool stuff included here. Nothing spectacular like Gabor Mate’s books though