Kenneth Anderson, "Strychnine and Gold: The Untold History of Addiction Treatment in the United States" (2021)

Kenneth Anderson, "Strychnine and Gold: The Untold History of Addiction Treatment in the United States" (2021)

Ever wondered how addiction treatment in the United States has evolved over the years? In this episode of 'New Books in Drugs, Addiction and Recovery', host Marshall Poe chats with Kenneth Anderson, the author of *Strychnine and Gold: The Untold History of Addiction Treatment in the United States*. Anderson, who has a wealth of experience in the field, offers a fascinating look at the often-overlooked aspects of addiction treatment.

With multiple master’s degrees and over twenty years of hands-on experience, Anderson's insights are invaluable. He discusses the commercialization of addiction treatment and introduces listeners to harm reduction approaches that prioritize practical support over abstinence-only models. Anderson's narrative takes us through some surprising historical methods, including the use of strychnine and conditioned taste aversion therapy. You'll also hear about the Kili Institute and inebriate asylums, shedding light on how far we've come—and how far we still have to go.

Whether you're new to the topic or a seasoned professional, this episode promises to enrich your understanding of addiction treatment's complex history.