Skip to main content
SearchLoginLogin or Signup

Drug Control Policy, Normalization, and Symbolic Boundaries in Amsterdam’s Coffeeshops

British Journal of Criminology; no DOI at time of this rxiving

Published onJul 25, 2020
Drug Control Policy, Normalization, and Symbolic Boundaries in Amsterdam’s Coffeeshops
·

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between drug control policy, normalization, and symbolic boundary work among drug traders. Taking from interviews with 50 personnel in Amsterdam’s coffeeshops, we find that Dutch drug policy shapes their understanding of what comprises morally acceptable drug use and sales. Conversely, the rules set by the state also guide personnel’s definitions of what is morally unacceptable: using hard drugs or committing predatory crimes. To normalize their own involvement with cannabis, personnel must identify potential rule-breakers and criminals. To do so, they construct symbolic boundaries differentiating themselves from these persons. We conclude by discussing the theoretical implications of our findings for normalization and symbolic boundaries and by suggesting a potential negative secondary impact of cannabis decriminalization or legalization: the further marginalization of hard drug users.

Note: To comply with copyright, this article’s postprint is only legally available at https://doi.org/10.21428/7b6d533a.9b18f35c. For more information about this strategy of sharing, see Your Personal Website is a Legal Solution to Embargo Problems.

Comments
0
comment
No comments here
Why not start the discussion?