The course focuses on drug use and abuse as a social--rather than as a medical or psychopathological--phenomenon. Topics include the history of drug use and drug legislation, the psychology and sociology of drug use, the drug business, drug laws and enforcement, U.S. and global drug policy, and, most of all, a detailed look at the current opioid crisis in the U.S.

Active participation throughout the duration of the course, on-time preparation and posting of concluded assignments, and a willingness to consider new ideas.

Students will be evaluated on the basis of several objective exams, postings to a discussion group, and one optional paper.