There are few topics that generate as much controversy and evoke such heated dissent than illicit drug use. In grounding the dynamic and the emotive global context, we are going to explore illicit drugs in the UK; to do this the chapter will be broken down into thematic headings, and the reader will be introduced to topics that will explore the social, political, and economic cost of drug misuse in the UK. In writing this chapter, we are taking a critical theoretical position against the individualisation of complex social problems; too often we place the burden of social crises, poverty, and inequality on the shoulders of individuals; it is often a burden to great to bear. The context of drug misuse is framed within this individual discourse globally and locally within the UK; the medical, psychological, and social response overwhelmingly converges on individual responsibility and adjustment; accordingly, our discussion aims to temper that and present a more balanced perspective. We will also look at the response to drug misuse in the UK through policy and legislation, critically examining the shift from harm reduction intervention to promoting recovery. Within the discussion, we will also use the terms drug misuse, drug use, illicit drugs, and psychoactive substances interchangeably. This is a deliberate provocation and intervention on our behalf, and one that hopefully will make you question the shifting reality and perception of drugs and drug misuse; keeping this fluid and contested nature of drug misuse in mind, we would like to introduce you to the next discussion heading
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)