#1379 - Ben Westhoff

PiHKAL (Phenethylamines I Have Known And Loved) is a book by Alexander and Ann Shulgin that details the chemical structures and subjective effects of a wide range of psychedelic compounds. The book is known for its detailed accounts of the Shulgins' personal experiences with these substances, offering a unique perspective on the subjective effects of psychedelics. It's a significant contribution to the field of psychopharmacology, though its accessibility has also raised concerns about potential misuse of the information. The book's comprehensive approach to documenting the chemical and subjective aspects of these compounds has made it a controversial yet influential work in the field. It remains a valuable resource for researchers and those interested in the history and effects of psychedelic drugs.

In this book, Ben Westhoff conducts a four-year investigation into the world of synthetic drugs, from black market drug factories in China to users and dealers on the streets of the U.S. and harm reduction activists in Europe. The book reveals the origins and spread of Fentanyl, including its initial development by Belgian chemist Paul Janssen in 1959, and how it has evolved into a lethal synthetic opioid. Westhoff's research involves undercover infiltration of Chinese drug operations, analysis of darknet marketplaces, and interviews with various stakeholders, including police officers, politicians, and drug users. The book highlights the global drug addiction crisis, the challenges of harm-reduction initiatives, and the ongoing efforts to combat the Fentanyl trafficking network.

In 'Chasing the Scream', Johann Hari delves into the origins and consequences of the war on drugs. The book spans nine countries, where Hari interviews a diverse range of individuals, including addicts, dealers, scientists, and policymakers. Hari explores the early figures in the drug war, such as Billie Holiday and Harry J. Anslinger, and discusses modern-day alternatives to prohibition, including decriminalization and legalization policies in countries like Portugal and Uruguay. The book argues that addiction is not a disease but an adaptation to environment and advocates for a shift from punitive measures to rehabilitation and connection-based solutions.