All kinds Quote by Glenn Loury
“Three strikes' laws make no sense as policy. They are more about the politicians responding to the people's desire to see their fury at social dysfunction reflected in the law. Our sentences are way too long. We need to look at the war on drugs, which is to say we need to look and this is easier said than done. Once again, politically, not an easy lift at all. Nevertheless, our policy is self-defeating. We're not keeping people from using the substances. We're creating a huge black market, just like we did under prohibition, which attracts all kinds of criminal enterprise.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public Policy Forum, Glenn Loury, 2022
Punitive drug laws create black markets and fail to reduce usage, making policy self‑defeating.
In simple terms: Harsh drug laws worsen crime.
Key Takeaway
Reform drug policy to reduce harm.
Themes
justice reform
public health
drug policy
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
policy
social commentary
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- community education
- law enforcement strategies
Key Concepts
prohibition consequences
market dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can evidence‑based policies gain public support?
- What alternatives reduce drug‑related harm?
A Different Perspective
Political resistance can stall reforms.
