250. TNE TALKS: The Problem with Criminalizing Addiction // Christina Dent

Summary Christina Dent, author of the book, Curious: A Foster Mom’s Discovery of an Unexpected Solution to Drug Addiction, shares the journey that changed her perspective on drugs and addiction. Ultimately, it led her to start the organization End It For Good. She discusses the importance of understanding the underlying causes of addiction and the need for a more compassionate and evidence-based approach to drug policy. Takeaways Changing deeply ingrained beliefs and challenging the status quo can be difficult but necessary. There are financial incentives that perpetuate the current drug policy system. Faith can play a role in shaping one's perspective on addiction and compassion. A more compassionate and evidence-based approach to drug policy is needed.  Legal regulation is crucial to ensure consumer safety and reduce crime related to drug addiction. Accessible healthcare, livable wages, and social infrastructure are essential in supporting individuals with addiction. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:31 Changing Perspectives on Drugs and Addiction 08:19 Challenging the Status Quo in Drug Policy 13:16 The Role of Faith in Shaping Perspectives 23:46 The Need for a Compassionate and Evidence-Based Approach 28:45 Approaching Loved Ones with Addiction 31:32 The Ineffectiveness of Arresting Drug Dealers 35:29 Addressing Contaminated Drugs through Legal Regulation 39:36 The Need for Accessible Healthcare and Livable Wages 46:36 Switzerland's Innovative Approaches to Drug Addiction Read Curious by Christina Dent Check out our website for merch, educational materials, and how to join our community! If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  Subscribe On YouTube The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center. We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices