ABSTRACT
Inebriety’s hazards have long been recognized, evolving into ideas of addiction during the 19th century. Before and since, periodically politicians have taken moral stances against things one might be addicted to: Tea and coffee; alcohol; marijuana; opiates; cocaine; various amphetamine derivatives; tobacco products; the dark net as a source of drugs. During these so-called “moral panics” a drug is linked to criminality, health problems and immorality, especially amongst “vulnerable” people such as youth, or women (Carnwath and Smith 2003). Panics are often followed by complacency about the harms intemperate use of alcohol or drugs can bring once the habit becomes established in the population. Drug concerns wax and wane over the centuries.
