Harm Minimization: A Basis for Decision Making in Drug Policy. David Hawks* and Simon Lenton*
Some conceptual issues raised by the adoption of a policy of harm minimization as a basis for decision making in drug policy are explored. Cannabis policy is used as an example which illustrates the complexity of the issues. If one is to compare two policies, using a simple 'calculus of harm', that is solving a cost benefit equation, then this will require: determination of the costs and benefits of drug and non-drug alternatives; agreement on a goal that is realistic and desirable for that individual or society given their current circumstances; consideration of both direct and indirect harms and benefits which are capable of being measured, or at least estimated; and a recognition that different stakeholders such as policy makers and drug users will invariably value costs and benefits differently. It is concluded that deciding between policies designed to minimize the harm associated with drug use is never going to be an exact science. It is the role of researchers to generate questions and collect the data which bear to the greatest extent on such policy questions.
*National Centre for Research Into the Prevention of Drug Abuse, 1/14 Stone Street, South Perth WA 6151, Australia
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