This text examines some of the problems and concerns surrounding drug use and abuse in society. The central theme is that alcohol, tobacco, and drugs are a part of our society and that our failure to deal with the resultant problems represents a betrayal to society. Education and prevention are stressed as the ultimate answer, but it is recognized that rehabilitation and enforcement programs must be expanded, upgraded, and utilized. Specific areas of consideration include: (1) social implications of the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs; (2) theories of drug dependence; (3) alcohol; (4) smoking and health; (5) drug use and abuse; and (6) countermeasures against alcohol, tobacco, and drug use. This text is designed primarily for use in college-level courses. (MM)