The Illusion of Free Will

In the book "Dreamland：The True Tale of America’s Opiate Epidemic," we found a detailed account of Arthur Sackler's groundbreaking work, which marked the beginning of modern pharmaceutical advertising. He carried out an intensive advertising campaign for thalidomide, a drug by Charles Pfizer, and this event signaled the birth of contemporary medical advertising. His company secured a license for a new tranquilizer called Valium, and the Valium advertisements encouraged doctors to prescribe it more, associating physical pain with stress. Women were the primary consumers of Valium. These achievements might sound familiar, as Richard Sackler followed in his uncle's footsteps and refined the same tactics.

Furthermore, the article provides an in-depth explanation of the molecules in addictive drugs, such as opioids. These molecules are incredibly potent because they have evolved to fit the receptors in the brains and spinal cords of all mammals, especially humans, much like a key fits a lock. The Mu-opioid receptors, when stimulated by naturally produced endorphins, create a sense of pleasure, making them particularly receptive to opioid molecules. It's as if opioid molecules act like spoiled lovers – leaving causes discomfort, and withdrawal symptoms are often described as painful, similar to constipation as if the last opioid molecule hidden in the kidneys resists being expelled. These molecules are unique in providing profound pain relief but also ruthlessly ensnaring humans when they try to break free.

When OxyContin came under scrutiny, Richard Sackler's primary argument was that blame should rest on the misuse of the drug rather than the drug itself. Restricting doctors from prescribing OxyContin seemed unfair to those who used it responsibly for moderate pain, as it deprived them of relief from their suffering. This argument is subtle and can be easily misleading. Without Bridget, the DEA agent's data analysis, it would be challenging to confirm the issue of the drug's defects, even when used as prescribed by doctors, resulting in a high addiction rate.

The concept of free will is elevated to an almost divine status, providing the illusion of infinite choices. However, individuals often seem to deliberately choose the path closest to the edge, risking their fall and leaving others to blame. In the modern age, comfort has become the norm. A complete individual must possess a sharp mind and a healthy body and cannot tolerate pain. Free will and the doctrine of the sin of pain are inherently contradictory. For those who choose asceticism as their way of life, opioid drugs do not offer redemption but rather lead to decline.

Modern forms of subjugation differ significantly from historical serfdom. In addition to Foucault's microscopic management in "Discipline and Punish" and Han Bingzhe's promotion of excessive self-competition in "The Fatigue Society," the exploitation of drug addiction is even more evident. Drug addicts' eyes become like those of a fly, with four thousand small eyes distorting their perception of the world through drugs. Individuals in modern society walk a fragile tightrope. The inundation of information shatters their once-complete values. Everyone holds an empty cup, bumping into each other, clinking glasses, and eagerly consuming each other's intoxicating drinks. It's no surprise that people become addicted to the pursuit of pleasure.

Society's ethos has shifted from the Puritan belief that "many are the afflictions of the righteous" to a hedonistic consumer culture that rejects pain. The intense marketing vividly depicts the heavenly pleasures brought by drugs, with opioid drugs becoming the social currency of the cool crowd. Opioid molecules evolve into scorpions with barbed tails, tightly gripping the body and refusing to let go. Humans have such weak willpower that rainy weather can profoundly affect their mobility. The original sin of drug addiction is unfairly attributed to every individual, just another manipulation by capital.

Never rely on free will; it's merely a fleeting placebo that momentarily makes you feel good.