Challenging Drug War Myths with Michael Rosino
Basically, you know, we've been socialized into through the media depictions of drug use, through Psas, through even things like dare programs that aren't effective, through the narratives that we see in the media, where you know, let's say, The New York Times does a story on the opioid epidemic and who they decide to interview is like police officers, and you know, other people who have a vested interest in criminalization.
What if everything you thought you knew about the war on drugs was turned on its head? In this episode of 'The Peace on Drugs', host Aaron Akulis sits down with Michael Rosino, a sociology professor at Molloy College and the author of 'Debating the Drug War: Race, Politics, and the Media'. Together, they unravel the tangled web of misinformation and inequality that has fueled decades of failed drug policies.
Rosino brings a fresh perspective, arguing that the war on drugs is not just ineffective but also deeply rooted in racial and political agendas. The discussion dives into how media myths have shaped public perception and contributed to a system that often pushes addicts from clinics to the streets. But it’s not all doom and gloom. The conversation also highlights activism and the power of grassroots movements to hold politicians accountable for more humane drug policies.
Whether you’re interested in sociology, politics, or simply want to understand more about addiction and recovery, this episode offers eye-opening insights that challenge conventional wisdom. Get ready to question everything you thought you knew about the drug war.