In his book, Seeing Through the Smoke, Dr. Peter Grinspoon, MD, explores the controversy concerning the use of cannabis; is it a low risk medicine or an insidiously addictive drug? Using his personal experience as an internist and cannabis specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital and an instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School, he discusses the evidence that proponents on both sides of the issue have traditionally used to support their viewpoint. He also draws from his family background growing up with a cannabis activist father and a brother whose life was prolonged and enhanced with cannabis use to combat the side effects of chemotherapy. Dr. Grinspoon sifts through the legal and scientific evidence about cannabis as well as the conventional wisdom to get at the truth.
After discussing the many arguments for and against the use of cannabis, and reviewing the history of cannabis use and the laws prohibiting and criminalizing its use, he turns his attention to the specific alleged risks and benefits of its use so that readers can make informed decisions. Chapters focus on psychosis, addiction, pregnancy, driving, brain development, memory, pain relief, anxiety, insomnia, cancer, autism, mental health, and substitution for opioids. Final chapters treat the use of cannabis for wellness and enhanced lifestyle, and propose a plan for reconciling the opponents and proponents of cannabis use.
Seeing Through the Smoke provides a guide through the complex problem of cannabis use. Grinspoon points out that like any drug, cannabis can provide benefits when used responsibly but has side effects and can harm if abused or used incorrectly. Yes, Grinspoon has a bias for cannabis use but he presents his evidence and arguments clearly and logically so readers can make up their own mind. His style is casual and conversational with out scientific jargon, and he introduces many personal experiences that enhance the discussion and engage the reader. A good read with much information to provoke thought.
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Karen Meyers