The focus is on the nature and effects of the "war on drugs" in America, especially by the latest strategies announced by the Bush-Bennett plan of September 5, 1989. Most of the chapters were prepared as papers to be presented at the Third International Conference on Drug Policy Reform, held in Washington, DC, November 2-5, 1989. At the time the conference was held, there was strong support for repressive measures that involved mass imprisonment and invasive actions that undermined traditional democratic freedoms, especially in the United States. This strategy was also being promoted for drug policies throughout the world. On the other hand, there was support for extensive reforms in drug policy, even including repeal of drug laws and the adoption of a policy of legalization. The papers focus on the forms and effects of these opposing drug policies and their variations, as well as their potential effects on democratic societies. The nine chapters of part 1 address comprehensive arguments for reform. The six chapters of part 2 address drug users' rights and risks. The seven chapters of part 3 consider polices that are appropriate for addressing drug addiction and providing treatment for addiction. The two papers of part 4 draw lessons from policies adopted toward legal drugs, notably the accessibility and consumption of alcoholic beverages. The two chapters of part 5 provide mathematical perspectives on the impact of punishment policies and the psychology of the "war on drugs." Part 6 has two chapters on medical marijuana victories, and the three chapters of part 7 focus on model laws for drug regulation. Chapter references