honors classes & Conversion

course description

Why are some addictive substances prohibited and others regulated or freely sold?  Why are some behaviors many people consider immoral prohibited by law, and others subject only to judgment by friends, family, and religious communities?  Does prohibiting addictive behavior make it less prevalent or less visible? 

This course explores prohibition as policy, theory, moral choice and medical challenge.  We explore a range of prohibited substances and behaviors, including but not limited to narcotics, alcohol, prostitution, tobacco, and gambling. 

In the first weeks of the class we read in a variety of disciplines to learn more about the history, policy choices, ethics, and medical understandings behind addiction and prohibition. 

In the second half of the class, students pursue their own research projects about a substance or behavior which has been prohibited or the target of prohibition efforts.  Students are encouraged but not required to focus their research on topics of importance to our local community.