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Drugs in America; Let Us Solve the Problem in 2006 Article by Lance Winslow
It is widely known yet rarely discussed in the political arena the serious problems that drug use causes our nation and civilization. And the United States is hardly alone in this problem, as many other nations have far worse problems going back thousands of years. Some is cultural and even seems to be an innate characteristic to seek an altered drug induced stated of consciousness. Recently the topic came up in an online think tank and all agreed there was no real easy silver bullet solution, yet we attempted to further define the problem and attempted to address possible solution relevant to the subject. One think tanker stated: “As for what can be done to solve the problem NOW? I'm not quite sure, perhaps minor deterrents like a charge for 'drug abuse' when an individual causes a social problem from the abuse of intoxicants they must face the charge of substance abuse, sentenced to rehabilitation and education programs and then finally community service to pay back the cost of all that has been incurred.” Most in the think tank appreciated this approach to the issue and yet, were concerned about the costs and the high rates of drug use recidivism and thus another think tanker stated; “Sure this makes sense to me. But I do not want to pay for it. I do not do drugs, never have. I do not want to be burdened as a taxpayer. It is not my problem it is their problem. They need to deal with it, not me. Your plan sounds really nice and sweet and will probably work, but it seems to me it takes a lot to over see and costs bundles. Why can’t people just say “No” I did and most of my friends did? It seems those friends who went astray growing up are a plenty good example of why one should not do drugs.” Most all of the think tank agreed that much more education is needed and that it is not okay and if we continually let people off the hook and say; “oh its okay, you made a mistake!” as all you are doing is telling them it is not their fault that addiction is a disease. Yet drug use is a choice, they took it; they chose to do it. Another think tanker stated: “Well it is their problem and fault, why should anyone else be inconvenienced? Redemption is fine, but before redemption how about some real proof of service to the common good and proof they will not let it happen again, costing us all more money for their mistakes?” Indeed you can see the differences in opinion here and the problems the issue of drug use, drug abuse and drug addiction bring up. And yes there are no easy, quick fix, silver bullet solutions. But we need a National Discussion on this issue, as the problem will not simply go away if we fail to address it. Consider this in 2006. "Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; http://www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/ Related Articles:-
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