Author Johann Hari. (Johann Hari)

Speaking with Truthdig Editor in Chief Robert Scheer on KCRW’s “Scheer Intelligence,” Hari speaks about the first unofficial drug czar, Harry Anslinger, and his role in criminalizing drugs in the 20th century. He also discusses research demonstrating that a lack of social connections can lead a person to “bond” with drugs, and the success Portgual and Switzerland have had in legalizing certain narcotics.

—Posted by Alexander Reed Kelly

Your support matters…

Independent journalism is under threat and overshadowed by heavily funded mainstream media.

You can help level the playing field. Become a member.

Your tax-deductible contribution keeps us digging beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that unearths what's really happening- without compromise.

Give today to support our courageous, independent journalists.

SUPPORT TRUTHDIG