The discussion uses findings from chemistry, biology, pharmacology, psychology, sociology, anthropology, history, criminal justice officials, and drug users themselves. It argues that illicit drugs are not as pleasurable, powerful, or dangerous as often believed, that much of the harm attributed to drug abuse results from deliberate choices made by self-destructive individuals, and that addiction is a psychological process rather than a physical one. In addition, the role of drugs in crime is different from what is commonly believed. Moreover, the "war on drugs" is aimed at democracy rather than drugs and is promoted by political opportunists who despise civil liberties. Furthermore, the experience of prohibition of alcohol in the United States and the legalization of certain drugs in other countries shows that legalization is an appropriate approach. Chapter notes, index, and 504 references