Belief Quote by Daniel Waterman
![“With drug use related harms, explanatory models are often presented as predictive tools, even though they ‘are [rarely if ever] predictive of consequent behavior’ or outcomes. Hence, we feel confident in asserting at outset, that prohibition based approaches in drug policy lack a sound basis in…” quote by Daniel Waterman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e7b/daniel-waterman-25499_belief_with-drug-use-related-harms-explanatory_303076.jpg)
““With drug use related harms, explanatory models are often presented as predictive tools, even though they ‘are [rarely if ever] predictive of consequent behavior’ or outcomes. Hence, we feel confident in asserting at outset, that prohibition based approaches in drug policy lack a sound basis in empirical research (despite sounding logical, i.e. remove drugs or the means of their production and less drugs will be available to users, thus minimising or eliminating harm), and are not animated by well-defined goals, goals that are not only consistent with the ethical and humanitarian aims of public health policy in general, but also with the fundamental principles of democracy) such as empowering or enabling those best placed to act, but by beliefs, assumptions, hypotheses and expectations.””
About This Quote
Source Article: Drug Policy Critique, 2023
The quote argues that drug prohibition lacks empirical support and is not truly predictive or goal‑oriented, contrasting logical assumptions with evidence‑based public health principles.
In simple terms: Prohibition isn’t backed by data and ignores health goals.
Key Takeaway
Rethink drug policies using evidence.
Themes
public health
policy
ethics
democracy
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
academic
policy
critical
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- public health planning
- community advocacy
- academic research
Key Concepts
empirical research
predictive modeling
harm reduction
Questions to Reflect On
- How can policies balance scientific evidence with public opinion?
- What alternatives better align with democratic health goals?
A Different Perspective
Evidence may be limited by political constraints and differing cultural values.
