The pure use of drugs like alcohol (especially naturally occuring) has zero to do with addiction, which we were discussing.
Yes it does, because physiological addiction exists, even to naturally occurring substances like alcohol, opium, coca leaves, etc.
The reason to continue using a drug to the point of physiological or psychological addiction can be as simple as “it feels good”. I do agree with you that a component of addiction is hardship, but I don’t think that’s the sole thing you can point to.
Also capitalism isn’t unique in being an oppresive system. Before capitalism, there was feudalism, slavery, monarchies, etc. When you have power seekers able to gain power, these kinds of systemic outcomes are inevitable.
Now, there is also evidence to support your hypothesis, namely that I think there was a study done thag showed that previously homeless herion addicts were very easilly able to quit the drug on their own after being housed. I don’t remember where I saw that study, though.
Yes it does, because physiological addiction exists, even to naturally occurring substances like alcohol, opium, coca leaves, etc.
The reason to continue using a drug to the point of physiological or psychological addiction can be as simple as “it feels good”. I do agree with you that a component of addiction is hardship, but I don’t think that’s the sole thing you can point to.
Also capitalism isn’t unique in being an oppresive system. Before capitalism, there was feudalism, slavery, monarchies, etc. When you have power seekers able to gain power, these kinds of systemic outcomes are inevitable.
Now, there is also evidence to support your hypothesis, namely that I think there was a study done thag showed that previously homeless herion addicts were very easilly able to quit the drug on their own after being housed. I don’t remember where I saw that study, though.