Steven B. Duke
Thoroughly researched, lucidly written, and cogently argued, this excellent book is a must-read for anyone who still thinks the drug war may be justified. Professor Benavie demonstrates that the drug war is not only racist and corrupt, it needlessly destroys the lives of millions."
Jeffrey Miron
"Professor Benavie has written a superb book that explains how a lethal mix of racism, misguided paternalism, and government rent-seeking empower the drug war and damage the liberty and property rights of all Americans."
Harold Carmel
"Professor Benavie skillfully demonstrates how America’s War on Drugs has been a spectacular failure for some time, with mass incarceration, shattered communities, and cheap illicit drugs as its legacy. This 'War' has resulted in militarization of police departments that depend on traffic stops for much-needed revenue in an age of budget cuts. The impact of all this has fallen on disenfranchised minority communities and widens the racial and class divides among Americans. As we come to grips with the devastation the War on Drugs has left, Benavie provides a comprehensive and readable look at how we got here, what is happening now, and possible ways out. This is an important book for those who want to understand the reality behind today’s law enforcement headlines."
Joan Petersilia
"Art Benavie’s new book, How the Drug War Ruins American Lives, is comprehensive and persuasive. Benavie offers a scathing critique against the War on Drugs, putting a human face on the millions of Americans whose lives and civil rights have been forever diminished. This book is a must-read for anyone—student, policymaker, and citizen—interested in rethinking current drug policies."
