RESOURCES REVIEW: The problem of drug debate versus propaganda

The authors of Buzzed are right to point out that the gap between scientific information and public information "is growing hour by hour". But this assumes that scientists come with no agenda of their own and are simply humble seekers after knowledge. Sadly, this is not the case. In support of their argument, they cite Dr Alan Leshner, former director of US National Institute on Drug Abuse, as saying, in classic Bush-speak: "There is a unique disconnect between the scientific facts and the public's perception about drug abuse and addiction. If we are going to make progress, we need to overcome this great disconnect." This is the same Dr Leshner who authorised the use of highly controversial brain scan images in public information campaigns trying to scare the bejesus out of US teenagers over the effects of ecstasy.