This text investigates the complex interplay between pharmacological properties of psychoactive substances and the social, legal, and behavioral frameworks of contemporary society. Charles F. Levinthal, a professor of psychology, utilizes a multidisciplinary approach to synthesize biological data with sociological analysis. The book provides a comprehensive overview of how drug use is defined, regulated, and experienced within modern cultural contexts, aiming to equip students with a balanced understanding of both the physiological effects of substances and the broader societal implications of their consumption.

This work is regarded as a foundational academic resource for undergraduate courses in psychology and sociology due to its structured, objective approach to a sensitive subject. The text is noted for its ability to bridge the gap between clinical pharmacology and the sociological realities of drug use in modern society.