Good Addiction

Abstract

This paper argues that drug addiction can be rational. The paper argues for rationality as a necessary component of a good life, and views paternalistic intervention as appropriate only if intended to prevent necessarily irrational behaviour. Drug addiction is not necessarily irrational. First of all, drug addicts do not lose the capacity to consider whether or not to consume their desired drug, and to act accordingly. And secondly, from a longterm as well as a short-term perspective, drug addicts may consider their addictions more beneficial than harmful. Interventions, then, should only be informative, not preventative. Paternalistic policies should only aim to inform addicts of the consequences of their addictions, they should not deny access to drugs.