Quick Take

The first book to prove CIA and U.S. government complicity in global drug trafficking, The Politics of Heroin includes meticulous documentation of dishonesty and dirty dealings at the highest levels from the Cold War until today. Maintaining a global perspective, this groundbreaking study details the mechanics of drug trafficking in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and South and Central America. New chapters detail U.S. involvement in the narcotics trade in Afghanistan and Pakistan before and after the fall of the Taliban, and how U.S. drug policy in Central America and Colombia has increased the global supply of illicit drugs.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Politics of Heroin: CIA Complicity in the Global Drug Trade

Introduction

"The Politics of Heroin: CIA Complicity in the Global Drug Trade" by Alfred W. McCoy is a groundbreaking book that sheds light on the CIA's involvement in the global drug trade. The book details the mechanics of drug trafficking in various regions, including Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and South and Central America. It also provides new insights into U.S. involvement in the narcotics trade in Afghanistan and Pakistan before and after the fall of the Taliban. McCoy's research is meticulous, and his findings are well-documented, making this book a must-read for those interested in understanding the complexities of drug trafficking and its impact on global politics.

About Alfred W. McCoy

Alfred W. McCoy is a renowned scholar and author who has spent over two decades researching the politics and history of the opium trade. He is currently a professor of Southeast Asian History at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he also serves as the director of the Center for Southeast Asian Studies. McCoy has also worked as a correspondent for the Observatoire Geopolitique des Drogues in Paris and has presented papers on the Mafia and the Asian heroin trade at various conferences. His expertise in this field makes him a reliable source for understanding the complexities of drug trafficking and its impact on global politics.

Analysis of Views

Compelling Evidence: Many readers praise McCoy's meticulous research and documentation of dishonesty and dirty dealings at the highest levels of government. They believe that half or more of what McCoy says is true, which casts a damning light on the CIA's complicity in the global drug trade.
Well-Researched and Verified: Readers appreciate the thoroughness of McCoy's research, which is supported by primary sources such as CIA and FBI files. They find it difficult to dismiss the book as the work of a conspiracy theorist or paranoid anarchist, as some have tried to do.
Historical Context: The book provides historical context for drug trafficking in Southeast Asia, from the post-war French occupation to the present day. Readers appreciate McCoy's ability to connect the dots between various events and players, shedding light on how drug trafficking has been used as a tool for political gain.
Importance of Transparency: Many readers find it essential to have books like "The Politics of Heroin" that expose hidden truths about government complicity in illegal activities. They believe that transparency is crucial for holding those in power accountable and preventing future abuses of power.
Impact on Society: The book has sparked discussions about the impact of drug trafficking on society, including its role in funding terrorism and fuelling conflicts. Readers appreciate McCoy's ability to connect the dots between various aspects of drug trafficking and its broader implications for global security.

Reasons for Recommendation

Rigorous Research: The book's meticulous research and documentation make it a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding drug trafficking and its impact on global politics. McCoy's extensive knowledge of the subject matter adds credibility to his findings.
Historical Context: The book provides historical context for drug trafficking in various regions, allowing readers to understand the complex dynamics at play. This historical perspective is essential for understanding the long-term consequences of drug trafficking and its role in shaping global politics.
Impact on Society: The book highlights the broader implications of drug trafficking on society, including its role in funding terrorism and fueling conflicts. By exploring these issues, McCoy encourages readers to think critically about the impact of drug trafficking on their own lives and communities.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Length: Some readers find the book lengthy and difficult to read due to its density. They may prefer more concise or accessible works that provide similar information.
Limited Scope: While McCoy's research is extensive, some readers feel that the book's focus on U.S. involvement in Afghanistan and Pakistan may limit its relevance to other regions or issues related to drug trafficking. They may seek additional resources to explore these topics further.

Conclusion

"The Politics of Heroin: CIA Complicity in the Global Drug Trade" by Alfred W. McCoy is a groundbreaking book that exposes the CIA's complicity in global drug trafficking. Through meticulous research and documentation, McCoy provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of drug trafficking in various regions, including Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and South and Central America. The book's historical context and exploration of broader implications on society make it a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding drug trafficking's impact on global politics and society. While some readers find it lengthy and limited in scope, overall, "The Politics of Heroin" is highly recommended for those seeking a deeper understanding of this complex issue.