A Philosophical Approach to Drug Addiction: Plato and Stoicism Open Access
Roberts, Madelyn (Spring 2023)
Published
Abstract
The presence of unjust acts has persisted throughout history, including acts such as aggravated assault, robbery, and homicide. Drug addiction has become exponentially more common, and while its complexities have been largely unaddressed, drug addiction has recently become the subject of increased scrutiny. The growing evidence of the unique nature of drug addiction continues to foster a social debate on how to best address this epidemic, including questions of prevention and appropriate consequences. This paper will look at modern analyses of the distinctive psychobiological bases of drug addiction and its cyclical process. It will conduct an in-depth investigation of drug addiction by delving into the nuances of Ancient Philosophy, specifically Platonic philosophy and Stoicism, and their relationship with contemporary thought pertaining to drug addiction. I argue that drug addiction is unique in the context of unjust acts, and thereby requires a unique approach in regards to consequences. The foundational concepts that distinguish drug addiction from other unjust acts include freedom, power, human nature, and ignorance. Because of drug addiction’s distinct attributes, investigating these concepts is integral in assessing how to best address the issue of drug addiction. Through its synthesis of Platonic and Stoic philosophies with the contemporary shift in understanding of the unique psychobiological aspects of drug addiction, this paper advocates for an increased focus on empathetic education in regards to preventative measures and alternative/concurrent consequences for drug addiction.
Table of Contents
I. Introduction..................................................................................................1
II. Contemporary Thought.................................................................................5
The Characteristics and Process of Drug Addiction..............................................5
Approach to Prevention and Consequences........................................................11
III. Platonic Philosophy....................................................................................14
A Basis for Unjust Acts.....................................................................................14
Good Actions and Freedom...............................................................................19
IV. Stoicism.....................................................................................................24
Bad Acts and State of the Human Being.............................................................24
Changes in Opinion.........................................................................................28
V. Consequences..............................................................................................33
Stoic Foundation in Empathetic Education........................................................33
Platonic Punishment and Education..................................................................37
VI. Conclusion.................................................................................................42
VII. Works Cited...............................................................................................45
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