From remotest antiquity to the present era of designer drugs and interdiction drugs have played a prominent role in the cultural spiritual and social development of civilisations. Antonio Escohotado demonstrates how the history of drugs illuminates the history of humanity as he explores the long relationship between mankind and mind-altering substances. Hemp for example has been used in India since time immemorial to stimulate mental agility and sexual prowess. Professor Escohotado, also, looks at the present-day differences that exist between the more drug-tolerant societies like Holland and Switzerland and countries advocating complete repression of these substances. The choice we face today is to teach people how to use drugs correctly or to continue to indiscriminately demonise them. Just say no the author says is not an option. Just say know is. ¨