SOCI 3620 - Drugs and Society

The subject of drug use transcends many fields and disciplines: Biology, counseling, history, law, criminal justice, political science, psychology, sociology, and social work. The literature is massive and diverse. This course explains the place of the sociological perspective within that body of work. Students will gain an understanding of US drug policy, its evolution, its current status, and alternatives in place around the world. New data on prevention and treatment are explored, the historical progression of law enforcement approaches are traced, and drug use in popular culture is reflected upon. Students will acquire greater understanding of the lived experience of drug users across race, gender, age, and social class via analytical reviews of ethnographic fieldwork publications.

Hours:
3