The Hidden History of Drug Consumption in Japan
Episode Overview
Japan's elite once coveted exotic ingredients like mummy and rhinoceros horn. Morphine became a mass commodity by the early 20th century. Heroin use spiked during the American occupation post-World War II. Magic mushrooms and peyote were sold openly in Japanese department stores. Gender dynamics played a significant role in drug consumption and state repression.
It's kind of obvious to people who know the history, but for students, it's a big surprise.
Ever wondered about the fascinating history of drug consumption in Japan? This episode of 'New Books in Drugs, Addiction and Recovery' dives deep into the book 'Drugs and the Politics of Consumption in Japan' by Judith Vitale, Miriam Kingsberg, and Oleg Benesch. Hosted by Rans Vagampek, this conversation explores how Japan's relationship with drugs has evolved from the early modern period to contemporary times.
From exotic ingredients like mummy and rhinoceros horn coveted by the elite, to the mass commodification of morphine and the rise of heroin use during the American occupation, the episode paints a vivid picture of Japan's drug history. The guests share intriguing anecdotes, like stumbling upon magic mushrooms in a Japanese department store and the surprising role of methamphetamines during wartime. They also discuss the cultural and social implications of drug use, including gender dynamics and state repression.
If you're curious about how historical events have shaped modern perceptions and regulations around drugs in Japan, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of this complex and often overlooked aspect of Japanese history.