Dr. Roneet Lev

High Truths on Drugs and Addiction

Dr. Roneet Lev

  • 201. Drug Policy | Paul Larkin

201. Drug Policy | Paul Larkin

Sunday 27th October 2024

Explore the evolution of drug policy with Dr. Roneet Lev and Paul Larkin, blending historical context with modern challenges in this engaging episode.
79 minutes
Informative
Engaging
Educational
Authentic
Thought-provoking

About this podcast

High Truths on Drugs and Addiction
Author:
Dr. Roneet Lev
Overview:
Categories:
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Navigating Alcohol Dependency
Family Recovery from Addiction
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Body & Mind
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Balancing Drug Policy: From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Challenges

Episode Overview

  • Ancient rabbis had early forms of alcohol policy.
  • Smart drug policy balances public health and individual freedoms.
  • Political polarisation complicates finding middle-ground solutions.
  • A balanced approach includes prevention, treatment, and enforcement.
  • Social media accelerates political extremes in drug policy.
The best policies are not black and white, but grey.
Ever wondered how ancient rabbis' policies on alcohol can relate to modern drug policy? In this episode of High Truths on Drugs and Addiction, Dr. Roneet Lev chats with Paul Larkin, a senior legal research fellow, about the evolution of drug and alcohol policies from Talmudic times to today. Paul shares his unique journey from a philosophy major to arguing cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and working at the Heritage Foundation.
They dive into the nuances of drug policy, discussing everything from the death penalty for drug dealing to the liberalisation of marijuana laws. Paul’s fascinating anecdotes about growing up in New York City during the French Connection era and his family's law enforcement background provide a rich backdrop for his current work. The conversation covers the polarisation of drug policy in the U.S., the impact of social media, and the delicate balance between public health and individual freedoms. Dr.
Lev and Paul also tackle the contentious issues of fentanyl use, cannabis legislation, and how political extremes complicate finding middle-ground solutions. They emphasise the importance of a balanced approach that includes prevention, treatment, and enforcement to effectively address substance misuse. Why should you listen to this episode? It offers a deep dive into the complexities of drug policy, blending historical context with modern challenges. Plus, Paul's blend of humour and expertise makes for an engaging and enlightening discussion.
Tune in to gain a better understanding of how smart drug policies can save lives and improve public health.