Like most libertarians, I’ve long argued that the government’s “war on drugs” is not only morally bankrupt and practically counterproductive, but also a leading contributing factor to the United States having the highest incarceration rate in the world.
This weekend, in an Op-Ed in the “NY Times”, Maia Szalavitz explored how alternative practices of “harm reduction” can inspire self-care, rather than spurring a cycle of self-destruction, for those suffering from substance abuse problems. Harm reduction promotes “policies that are both humane and effective by putting risks in context and centering the perspectives of those who are most affected. By making it the cornerstone of drug policy — and all policies aimed at changing risky human behaviors — we can build a healthier, happier and more equitable world.”
Check out the full article here.