Regularly, there are calls to legalize illegal drugs, such as cannabis and ecstasy. Those who support legalization argue that the problem is prohibition and that legalization will solve all the problems, such as crime, ill-health, and so on. But this argument is another oversimplification. Legalization needs to be more carefully assessed before changing the existing system. Written by a well-respected criminologist, this book is a polemic piece on a very topical issue. The book examines the implications of legalization. It carefully analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of each of the current viewpoints on the legalization of drugs, including prohibition, medicinal use, etc. It is not a platform for any of the various arguments or positions for or against legalization. It does not offer support for the status quo. Neither does it support those who suggest simple solutions nor those who consider change as attractive simply because they are bemused or bewildered by the present system. It