Dr. Marc Lewis: Unpacking Addiction Beyond the Disease Model
The idea that addiction is fundamentally a brain disease is pretty much an American thing... Addiction is about pursuing something that is attractive enough to keep doing it again and again and again.
Imagine seeing addiction not just as a chronic brain disease but as a complex interplay of choices and desires. That's exactly what neuroscientist Dr. Marc Lewis brings to the table in this riveting episode of 'The Social Exchange'. Host Zach Rhoads sits down with Dr. Lewis, who is also the author of bestselling books 'Memoirs of an Addicted Brain' and 'The Biology of Desire', to challenge the conventional understanding of addiction. Dr.
Lewis argues that the traditional disease model falls short in capturing the intricacies of addiction. Instead, he suggests that addiction is about pursuing something so compelling that it becomes difficult to stop. This perspective opens up a whole new way of thinking about addiction, emphasizing the role of personal choice and the brain's inherent complexity. But that's not all. The conversation also dives into the political and economic factors influencing addiction treatment. Dr.
Lewis draws fascinating parallels between addiction and falling in love, making this episode both thought-provoking and relatable. Whether you're someone grappling with addiction, a loved one seeking to understand it better, or just curious about the topic, this episode offers a fresh and authentic perspective. Dr. Lewis' insights are bound to make you rethink what you know about addiction and its treatment.
Tune in for an engaging discussion that challenges traditional views and provides a nuanced look at one of society's most pressing issues.