Why are some drugs considered socially acceptable while others are demonized? In Canada today, drugs are viewed as both beneficial and problematic, and there is no definitive agreement on what should be done to address drug use.

The Drug Paradox examines both the empirically founded and socially constructed nature of drugs and drug use. In their exploration of the drug paradox, the authors discuss how the punitive approach to drug use in Canada continues to exist alongside strategies of harm reduction, though this only impedes Canada’s ability to deal effectively with substance misuse.

The Drug Paradox is ideal for use in sociology courses on drugs and drug use, and will also appeal to those who focus on drug use from a criminology, public health, or policy perspective.

Tara L. Bruno is an Associate Professor of Sociology at King’s University College, Western University.

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Rick Csiernik is a Professor at King’s University College, Western University. He has authored and edited several Canadian Scholars textbooks: Wellness and Work (2005); Responding to the Oppression of Addiction (co-edited with William S. Rowe, 2017, third edition); Substance Use and Abuse (2016, second edition); and Homelessness, Housing, and Mental Health (co-edited with Cheryl Forchuk and Elsabeth Jensen, 2011) . He has written more than 95 journal articles, and some of his research interests include addiction, Workplace Wellness, social work, and spirituality. He has consecutively been included on the King’s University College Honour Roll of Teaching, and is a recipient of the Instructor Appreciation Award at McMaster University.

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