Seven main arguments are erroneously used to justify drug legalization: (1) prohibition of drugs leads to more crime; (2) interdiction has failed; (3) society cannot afford the costs of imprisoning drug offenders; (4) drug use is not all that bad; (5) society permits alcohol and tobacco use which kills many more people; (6) the drug problem is primarily a treatment issue; and (7) the government has no right to interfere in the private lives of citizens if their activities do not harm others. The case for a causal connection between prohibition and crime is not persuasive. If drug use increases with legalization, legalizing drugs is far more likely to create more crime, not less. Further, complete success is not a justifiable criterion for judging the success or failure of prohibition, and evidence indicates that law enforcement and criminal justice pressure leads many addicts into treatment. Consideration is paid to international drug interdiction efforts, the imprisonment of drug offenders, dangers of drug use, the need for effective drug treatment, and moral aspects of drug legalization. Fundamental flaws in the logic of those favoring drug legalization are noted, and various approaches to drug legalization are identified. The importance of a consistent drug policy is emphasized, based on the recognition that drugs will never be completely eliminated. 45 notes