The Dutch Way

I have been trying to read the local news daily (in English, I'm not that good...yet) both as a point of interest and a source of education. The political system and the social climate differ in significant ways from the US, and I'm not talking about the near-total lack of conservative mind-sets or the Red Light District. One of the biggest notable differences between Europe and America is the amazing lack of political correctness here - the concept and practice are met with disgruntled looks by the straightforward Dutch. In a country where the openly gay politician Fortuyn got elected - and reelected - all the while referring to Muslims as "goat fuckers" in the media, saying whatever happens to be on your mind is perfectly acceptable.

The more I read Dutch journalism, the more I see examples of such. General news articles have a touch of informality and even a pinch of unabashed biasedness. This "cut to the chase" kind of realness can prove quite entertaining. For example, this was on the front page of March 30th edition of "The Times:"

Sexual Relations with Animals Punishable

And just a taste "Having intercourse with animals can only be punishable if it can be proved that the animal has been hurt during the act."

The Dutch - always working for the rights and protection of all beings.


On a much more serious note, the city of Amsterdam is reeling from a real tragedy. Early last week, a 17 year old French girl committed suicide from the bridge near NEMO while under the influence of magic mushrooms. In a surprisingly snap decision, some officials issued a statement suggesting a country-wide ban on mushrooms. The girl's parents are holding the country of the Netherlands directly responsible for her death - mushrooms are very easy to get, arguably a touch easier than cannabis. The smart shop that sold the offending mushrooms did not ID the girl (you need to be 18 to buy shrooms) and only had information and warnings in English, Dutch, and Spanish.

While I've never had any interest in doing shrooms, I am still well aware of their supposed effects. Even more, if someone had a desire to do them, I'd imagine they realized their potential effects - otherwise, why would you want to do them? The smart shop admitted it failed to ID the girl, which does not come as a surprise to me, having lived in the city for over two months now. In my experience, bars, supermarkets, and liquor stores never ID, while coffeeshops do sporadically, either ID'ing all those present (even those not partaking) or at least the direct buyer.

An editorial I read today echoed my own thoughts - isn't jumping right to a complete ban mildly illogical and strangely nonpragmatic for the Dutch. Mushrooms, in and of themselves, do not cause death - though I wouldn't be surprised about permanent brain damage, considering the stories I've heard - but, like many other mind-altering substances, tend to emphasize emotions and perceptions. Specifically, they are known to heighten depression. I don't know the statistics for France, but in the Netherlands Prozac and other anti-depressants are the number one prescribed drug. That number is probably not that much different in the US. So, who's to blame for the girl's suicide - a substance or a previously existing chemical problem?

Upon reading this case, I was immediately reminded of the American way of dealing with cannabis. Cannabis is not completely harmless and I'm not suggesting anything of the sort, but I am suggesting that it is not the cause behind crime, poverty, or broken homes. Millions of individuals go to jail every year for a minor drug possession, while real "criminals" get off on bail and go on with their life. Cannabis use and personal possession are tolerated practices in the NLs because this allows the government to regulate an evitable occurrence. There are negative aspects of cannabis and mushroom use, but are we pointing the gun at the right enemy?

The previously mentioned editorial pointed to alcohol (ab)use in youth - a much more common occurrence around the world, with many more documented cases of injury, death, and resulting legal problems. This was the first mushroom related incident in five years in the NLs, while alcohol abuse causes problems every day. Mushrooms in Amsterdam, Weed in Albany...but when its liquor, we all conveniently avert our eyes? To alleviate a symptom, one must treat the cause, not just the resulting discomfort.

It will be interesting to see how the Dutch handle this singular case, and if any actions taken affect other currently standing policies. In America, I don't imagine much will change soon; even the liberal Dutch are progressively growing more conservative, I think that means there's no hope in sight for right wing America.

...Now, for those who are quick to judge (though I can't imagine there's many such individuals like that reading my blog) a disclaimer: I'm not advocating drug use, but nor am I condemning it. I only wish that others would take responsibility for their personal actions; if we could all just aim for that goal, I think we would see a reduction in many little problems throughout society. Then maybe, the bigger problems could get the attention they so desperately need.