Instructions
As you have learned, public policy regarding drugs in the United States is continuously evaluated and updated. These changes are made in response to the prevalence of drugs or a drug problem, the introduction of a new drug, public opinion towards a particular drug, or due to crime resulting from drugs or drug use. We cannot ignore the influence that changes in cultural attitudes toward drugs have upon the approach to drugs and drug enforcement.
Respond to the following:
Consider the relationship between drugs, culture, and public policy. Next, review the provisions of the Controlled Substance Act of 1970.
What significant changes have been made to the original act?
Do you think those changes are sociocultural or political in nature. Explain.
Refer to the textbook’s chapters or module notes:
Levinthal, C. F. (2019). Drugs, society, and criminal justice (5th ed.).
Chapter 1: Understanding the Drug Problem in America
Chapter 2: Understanding the Drug Problem in Global Perspective
Chapter 3: Drug-Control Policy in America
Module Notes: Schedule I Notes
View amplifying information under the following documents:
United States Drug Enforcement Administration. (n.d.). Controlled substances act: www.dea.gov/drug-information/csa
United States Drug Enforcement Administration. (n.d.). Drug scheduling: www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling
Independent Lens. (2017). Timeline of U.S. drug policy: www.pbs.org/independentlens/content/house-i-live-in_timeline-html/