The Study of other cultures and the history of past periods in all lands shows that humans often seek alternative cognitive states almost innately. This of course can cause havoc for an industrialized nation in the first world as these folks cannot operate equipment, drive cars or function at the level needed to maintain and control the civilization.
Recently this topic of conversation was brought up at an online think tank in which a think tanker stated that; "Every generation seeks its forms of intoxication; some try it, have a great time, get over it and then move on” and also stated that folks try such drugs to have a good time and experiment.
Indeed it appears that this is the case in many civilizations, but it is not okay. The fact that the think tanker talks about it like it is "Having a good time” is accepting and condoning it. Whereas I agree on personal choice, I disagree in discussing it in a way that makes others want to go out and try it to; "Have some fun” as I believe if folks are not already having fun, perhaps
If there is a problem in society or one's own life or brain, then deal with it. But using drugs to "have fun” is a problem really. Although the drug issue is deeply engrained in American Culture like all cultures and civilizations, that does not mean it is not a problem. We need a solution to this issue, because the pursuit of happiness thru drug use is a dead end street for the user, abuser and taxpayer. Consider all this in 2006.
"Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; http://www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/