"I generally agree. One area I disagree with libertarians on is drug policy. I think society has a right to outlaw some things as inherently too harmful for society at large. The most addictive and dangerous drugs like cocaine, meth, etc. are one example, imo.* Even when society allows certain things, it has the right to restrict individuals freedom to use them however they want - outlawing driving under the influence, selling to underage kids, etc."
It seems to me that we should separate using such harmful drugs from the actions a person might take while using them, just as we do with alcohol.
If somebody made me king, I'd get rid of all drug laws and also cut off all funds for rehab. If someone wants to misuse drugs, let them. If they break any laws (like DUI, assaults, etc), use of drugs would be an aggravating factor in their prosecution. Mothers could point at a writhing druggie in withdrawal on the street and tell their kids, "see, that's what happens when you take heroin/meth/coke." IMO, it wouldn't take long for the abusers to either die or get dry.
I don't mind if people skydive or do rock climbing, either. Folks should be allowed to make dangerous decisions, so long as they understand the consequences. |
