SO371-15 Drugs, Crime & Society

This module explores the relationship between drugs, crime, and society. Students will be introduced to the historical and political developments that have influenced drug control strategies and practices around the world. This will serve as a foundation to understand many of the contemporary issues and debates concerning drug use, abuse, and addiction, as well as the suggested links between drugs and crime, and drugs in the criminal justice system.

The module is divided into two distinct, though overlapping sections. Part one is designed to provide a detailed understanding of the wider social context of drug use through a historical perspective to illustrate how drugs (including alcohol) have been subject to moral censure and regulation as attempts to control certain social groups. The effects of drug use, abuse and addiction are also covered, discussing the pharmacology of drugs as well as the drug's classification so this knowledge can be set against the social factors that have a significant bearing on understanding problematic or non-problematic drug use. It also outlines and reflects on the politics of drug control through legislation, prevention policies and treatment programs. The second part of the module turns attention to the specific link of drugs to crime, presenting theories that try to explain this connection and the significant types of drug use and abuse related to particular crimes. Furthermore, it debates the international nature of the drug market and how it impacts the control of drugs in different stages of the criminal justice system.

Key information:

Optional module

15 CATS

Summative Assessment: 3,000-word essay (100%)

Teaching: 1 hour lecture & 1 hour seminar per week.

Module convenor: Silvia GomesLink opens in a new window