The Forbidden Game

By Brian Inglis

To what extent does drug use and abuse reflect the society we live in? And why did humans start taking them in the first place?

In this fascinating social history of drugs, Brian Inglis traces drug use, abuse and policy throughout the ages, beginning with their role in spiritual visions and ancient rituals performed by shamans. He investigates historical and modern recreational usage of cannabis, heroin and cocaine, as well as more socially acceptable drugs like alcohol, caffeine and nicotine.

Investigating the failure of prohibition, he argues that the corrupt systems and harsh legislations have only succeeded in boosting the drug trade. By deconstructing recurring themes in drug policy, Inglis poses vital questions surrounding what it is that drives us to engage in recreational drug use and what this means in our modern world of globalisation.

Brian Inglis (1916-1993) was an Irish journalist, historian and TV presenter. Other books by Inglis include The Opium Wars and The Story of Ireland.