You must produce a 3,000 word essay using either a ‘case study’ approach, or by answering a ‘topic-related question’. This assignment assesses Learning Outcomes Two and Three:
- Show an appreciation of the contested nature of knowledge surrounding drug use, addiction, treatment and policy, through critical evaluation of the core assumptions and concepts underpinning such knowledge.
- Critically evaluate drug-related problems and offer evidence-based solutions where appropriate, informed by wider notions of ‘justice’.
Case Study Approach
Students must choose a drug or group of drugs (i.e. opiates, hallucinogens, NPS etc.) and produce a systematic study of it covering:
- The history of its production and use;
- A critical review of state responses to it (policy, treatment, decriminalisation etc.);
- An evaluation of evidence-based solutions to the drug(s)’ associated problems, informed by wider notions of ‘justice’.
Topic Related Questions:
Students must select ONE of the following questions:
- To what extent can the current system of UK drug classification under the 1971 Misuse of Drugs Act be said to be ‘fit for purpose?’
- Critically evaluate the suggestion that the use of stronger strains of cannabis (i.e. skunk) is a ‘new drug problem’ and explain the extent to which policy responses impact on its use.
- The link between drugs and crime is more complex than it first appears. Critically discuss this claim.
- Critically evaluate the impacts of UK criminal justice drug interventions (for example prisons, community sentencing and/or alternatives). Explain how drug users, and indeed justice, might be better served by the criminal justice system.
- Identify and critically assess the relative strengths and weaknesses of a range of alternative systems for regulating drugs.
COMPREHENSIVE ESSAY GUIDANCE IS PROVIDED IN THE REST ATTACHED FILE.
