Welcome to Drugs, Society, and Behavior FS033 Fall 1998 Professor C. J. Vélez-Blasini

The use and abuse of licit and illicit drugs is a major public health problem facing American society. Still, experts disagree on issues of prevention, causation, and treatment. This seminar will help students understand the complexity of the problem and its possible solutions. What is the relative effectiveness of education programs versus interdiction and law enforcement in reducing substance abuse? Would the legalization of certain drugs help solve current problems? To what extent are factors such as heredity, environment, and an individual's personality involved in chemical addiction? Does drug testing violate civil rights? Is AA the best treatment for alcoholism?