Chance of Death vs Jail Time

Here's a perspective on drug prohibition you might not hear very often.

While I remain firm on my position that the government cannot protect individuals from themselves, and that many drugs out there are far beyond my realm of consideration, there are also some drugs that can be enjoyed without risk of overdose.

However, in the case of drugs that are of capability to induce death (heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, oxycontin, whatever the fuck else is around these days), the user of such substances may encounter a situation where an overdose can occur; in which case they are completely incapacitated and could be in a hospital or death position.

Imagine being with someone who suddenly overdoses.  Maybe you just met.  But maybe you've been friends for a long time and just partied too hard.  Now you're in a bind; because you could take your friend to the hospital for emergency antidotes and risk being charged for drug possession, or let your friend OD to death on the floor.

In this system, you can choose between death or life in jail.  Sucks if you're a hard drug user.  I must stress that there have been plenty of incredible people in society who have died due to drug overdoses.  If a person uses an extreme drug it does not immediately qualify them as a worthless junkie.

We're all human.  All humans make mistakes.  And if that mistake forces you into impossible positions, maybe it's time legislation have less of a disciplinary hand and more of a caring hand; it's time to allow fair options to the afflicted.

Systems of Getting the Word Out There

Hey blog readers,

I've started this blog in order to share some opinions, perspectives, and harsh criticisms about things that affect our lives in ways we might not realize.  I'll be taking close looks at issues, mostly Canadian issues but internationally as I feel necessary, that drum up controversy or derision.  Check back often to hear the latest rant.