Is health or life more than a chemical reaction? The growth of mind-altering, behavior-modifying, body-regulating, and other drug products makes this more than an empty question. Whether one is staving off depression, high or low blood pressure, anti-social behavior, diabetes, impotence, or hyperactivity, drugs are available. If one simply wants to relax or to party more vigorously, heighten one's physical pleasure or escape from daily pressure, certain drugs claim to accomplish these ends. Behind most media coverage is the idea that there should be a drug to meet every human need. If it doesn't exist now, we're told research should be funded until it is found.
A search of the Internet, however, will reveal the fears expressed by many about what they see as society's over-reliance on drug regimens for controlling behavior and regulating health. Many wonder if the amount of drugs taken by an average individual makes sense. For example, I was visiting with friends, and one finished each lunch and dinner with ten to fifteen pills ranging from vitamin supplements to heart medication. To him, each pill has an important purpose in maintaining his health.
Is our health or life more than a chemical reaction?
