Based on an analysis of relevant information in hundreds of medical, legal, and sociological journals as well as scores of news and magazine articles, this study concludes that society cannot afford the costs of even a brief experiment with either the decriminalization of drug laws or the legalization of now illicit drugs. The study argues that legalization of drugs would not end drug-related corruption, crime, and violence nor would it reduce the overall costs to society of the drug abuse problem. The study agrees with proponents of legalization regarding the inability of enforcement efforts to stop drug trafficking and use, but it is considered the preferred means for containing the problem along with treatment and prevention efforts. Legalization may well increase the use of drugs and require a costly network for regulating their production, distribution, and consumption. The pamphlet examines the medical, psychological, and pharmacological effects of stimulants (including cocaine), cannabis, depressants, narcotics, and hallucinogens. 100 references