Ethan Nadelmann on How Drug Policy Has Changed Over the Years
I think the other major thing that we've seen is a dramatic shift in the way that people think about drug use and addiction. You know, when I started this work, it was very much a sort of moralistic view of people who use drugs as bad people who needed to be punished. And now, it's much more of a public health view, which is that people who use drugs are people with a medical condition that needs to be treated.
Ever wondered how drug policies have evolved over the decades? In this compelling episode of 'Choose Your Struggle', host Jay Shifman sits down with Ethan Nadelmann, the founder of the Drug Policy Alliance and host of the podcast Psychoactive. Ethan takes us on a journey through his early days in drug policy reform, sharing how he brought various organizations together in the 90s to form the legendary DPA.
Even after retiring, Ethan remains a significant voice in the field, continuing to shape conversations around drug use and policy. The episode dives into how societal views on drug use and addiction have shifted from moral judgment to a public health perspective. Ethan discusses the successes and ongoing challenges in drug policy reform, highlighting the importance of treating drug use as a medical condition rather than a moral failing.
He shares fascinating anecdotes from his career, including interactions with notable figures like Dan Savage and former President Juan Manuel Santos of Mexico. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the complexities of drug policy and the importance of compassionate, evidence-based approaches. Whether you're interested in the history of drug policy or looking for ways to support reform, this episode offers a rich tapestry of information and inspiration.
Tune in for an engaging conversation that challenges preconceived notions and advocates for a more humane approach to drug use and addiction.