Subscribe now

Letter: Driven to drugs

Published 24 November 2004

From Jim Noble

Ronald Siegel says intoxication is “the fourth drive, after hunger, thirst and sex”. The three primary drives are sustenance, sex and sleep. The omission of sleep is inexcusable.

Dream deprivation causes sleepiness; hallucinations are similar to dreams. Hallucinogens and stimulants reduce or eliminate the need for sleep while depressants aid sleep.

It seems to me that the various forms of intoxication are parts of the sleep (or dream) drive, rather than a drive in itself. That conclusion may undermine a “scientific” justification for legalising intoxicants. But it does not affect our right to do as we like with our bodies.

London, UK

Issue no. 2475 published 27 November 2004

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up
Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop