Drug subculture

Drug culture

Nature

For many years, a drug subculture, joining people with an overwhelming need for some artificial means to cope with daily existence, has existed around the world. At one time this group often belonged to the lower economic classes. This is no longer the case. In many developed countries, drug use is considered a symbol of sophistication, an exciting experience or a harmless and amusing pastime. It is encouraged by the commercial exploitation of drugs of abuse and media glamourization of drug use (sometimes unintentional), particularly among young people. Today, drug abuse has invaded schools, financial institutions, businesses, the entertainment field, sports arenas and government administrations.

Incidence

The drug subculture is prevalent across various regions, with significant concentrations in urban areas. In the United States, the National Institute on Drug Abuse reported that in 2020, approximately 36 million Americans aged 12 and older had used illicit drugs in the past year, reflecting a growing normalization of drug use within certain social groups. Globally, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) estimated that around 275 million people used drugs in 2020, highlighting the widespread nature of this subculture across diverse populations and cultures.
A notable example of the drug subculture occurred in the United States during the 1990s, particularly in cities like Seattle, Washington. The rise of the grunge music scene was closely associated with a culture of drug use, particularly heroin and methamphetamine, which became emblematic of the youth's rebellion against mainstream values. This period saw a significant increase in drug-related incidents and fatalities, reflecting the deep entrenchment of drug use within the local subculture.

Claim

The drug subculture has always isolated itself. It has its own language and mores, and its own set of perverted values. It considers itself outside and beyond the law, apart from the rest of society. Its practitioners have deliberately created a "cult of exclusion" : if you do not take drugs, you are not "with it". The language is graphic : "coke head", "junkie", "spaced out", "stoned", "hop head". All of these terms describe those who are not in control of themselves or of their lives.

Counter-claim

The notion of drug subculture being a significant problem is vastly overstated. Many individuals engage with substances in controlled environments, often as a form of social expression or exploration. The focus should be on personal responsibility and informed choices rather than demonizing a diverse community. By overemphasizing the dangers, we ignore the potential for education and harm reduction, ultimately stifling open dialogue and understanding. Let's prioritize real issues instead of sensationalizing a complex cultural phenomenon.